Analysis on association between water supply administration and endemic fluorosis in the fluorosis areas by improved water

Objective To investigate status of management system governing drinking water in Zhangzhou, a fluorosis areas where drinking water had been improved and the condition of endemic fluorosis. Methods The investigative methods of epidemiology were used. Results 17.65% of the population turned to drink high fluoride water in the fluorosis areas where drinking water had been improved. The overall rate of dental fluorosis was 14.32% in 8 ~ 12 years students in the area, whereas it was 22.4% in the areas where improved water supply was abnormal, which had a significant difference compared with that in normal water supply fluorosis areas. Moreover it was 33.33% in the fluorosis areas where improved water supply was insufficient or water supply equipment had fault. In drinking water price management, the rate of drinking high fluoride water was 48.2% and the rate of dental fluorosis is 27.12% in the fluorosis areas under monthly payment, higher than that where charges were paid by tons. Conclusions Some people re-drink high fluoride water in the areas where drinking water have been improved resulting in an increased rate of dental fluorosis in areas due to insufficient improved water supply, water supply equipment breakdown or poor maintenance, high charges on drinking water in fluorosis areas. It is suggested that the management and maintenance of water sources be strengthened, drinking water be paid by tons according to local conditions and remission be given to low-level income families.