Current situation of severe diseased areas of fluorosis in Guangdong province

Objective To investigate the present condition of endemic fluorosis in serious diseased areas in Guangdong province, and to provide scientific measures for controlling endemic fluorosis in future. Methods Four countries were randomized in 8 severely prevailed areas; fifty percent of the population in the areas respectively from light, moderate and severe diseased regions were taken into account. Dental fluorosis in children aging 8 to 12 years and serious skeletal fluorosis in adults were investigated. Fluoride levels in water and children's urine were assessed, and investigation of water improving facility were carried out. Results The incidence rate of dental fluorosis in the children was 12.15%, and no serious skeletal fluorosis patient was found. The averaging fluoride level in water was 1.10 mg/L; in the children's urine 1.27 mg/L; water quality had been improved in 94.1% of the severely prevailed counties. Conclusions Endemic fluorosis in Guangdong province is almost under control, and the patients' condition is improving. Defluoridation and improving water quality should be further carried out in some seriously diseased areas.