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To the editor:
The ongoing debate regarding fluoridation of public water has significant implications for community health. Evidence suggests the discontinuation of Florida can lead to adverse outcomes.
Evidence from Calgary:
The city of Calgary decision to discontinue fluoridation in 2011 -2021 resulted in a troubling increase in cavities in children. Reports indicate that 64.8% of children had cavities in their primary teeth during that period Calgary voters reinstated fluoridation in 2021 understanding public support to reinstate preventative measures that safeguard children’s health.
The annual cost breakdown is:
Communities over 200,00 people pay 12 cents to 21 cents per person
Communities 10,000-200,000 pay 18 t0 74 cents per year
Communities fewer than 10,000 pay 60 cents to $5.41 per year.
The return on investment far exceeds its minimal cost in effectively preventing cavities, promoting public health leading to dental decay and lowering health care in the long run. Investing in a preventative measure enhances community health.
Fluoridation should be a public health initiative.
On May 10, Florida banned the addition of fluoride to public drinking water. The law Senate Bill 700 signed by Gov. DeSantis prohibits local governments from unilaterally adding fluoride to public water supplies.
OK, parents in Lee County, how are you going to protect your young children from forming cavities?
Kathleen Callard RNBS
North Fort Myers