Health Effects of Water Fluoridation Research Paper

Health Effects of Water Fluoridation - Research Paper Example Questions concerning the health impact of fluoride have been raised by various experts arguing that water fluoridation carries with it significant health risks which may not be easily managed in the long run. This paper will provide an analysis of the health impacts and the current health situation in relation to the use of fluoride in the water, mostly in countries of Central Asia, including Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal. This analysis is being carried out in order to establish a more thorough understanding of the impact of fluoride on health, details which can help health authorities in their policy-making activities concerning fluoridation of water in these areas. Body In general, fluoride is often added to water as a decontamination agent to remove bacteria and other possible contaminants (Sharma 2003, 1). In various countries, especially in developing countries, this is the only means of filtering their water supply. It is a cheaper and easier option for these territories whose need to decontaminate the water supply is imperative. Other, more developed, countries, have other decontamination processes and options, options which allow them to do away with the fluoridation of their water supply (Fawell, et.al., 2006, 18). In Central Asia, fluoridation of water is a common practice. However, in recent years various health issues in regard to the persistent introduction of fluoride in the water have been raised (Fawell, et.al., 2006, 15). Some of these health issues will be specified below.... It is a cheaper and easier option for these territories whose need to decontaminate the water supply is imperative. Other, more developed, countries, have other decontamination processes and options, options which allow them to do away with the fluoridation of their water supply (Fawell, et.al., 2006, 18). In Central Asia, fluoridation of water is a common practice. However, in recent years various health issues in regard to the persistent introduction of fluoride in the water have been raised (Fawell, et.al., 2006, 15). Some of these health issues will be specified below. Based on an assessment by the British Geological Survey (n.d, 2), fluoride build-up has become significantly apparent in the ground waters of Central Asia and Africa. Countries that have been affected worse include China, India, Sri Lanka, West Africa, and other African and South American territories (British Geological Survey n.d, 2). Fluorosis issues arose in India and became major issues for its various territor ies, including Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Fluorosis also emerged as a major issue in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh (Fawell et al. 2006, 29). In Pakistan, fluorosis was also seen as a major health issue, and this prompted detailed research studies by the UNICEF on the subject matter (Fawell et al. 2006, 29). In recent years, recommendations on the elimination or at least the reduction of fluoride in the water have been suggested as a healthier option for the decontamination of water. To some extent, the reduction of fluoride use has been implemented; however, undeniably, the health effects of fluoride in water are still persistent. At low concentrations, fluoride is beneficial to the teeth, mostly in helping eliminate teeth decay;