Spatial-Temporal Analysis of Drinking Water Type of Endemic Fluorosis — China, 2009–2022
Lijun Zhao, Zhe Li, Mang Li, Hongna Sun, Wei Wei, Lin Gao, Qiaoshi Zhao, Yang Liu, Xiaohong Ji, Cheng Li, Jian Wang, Yanhui Gao, Junrui Pei
Abstract
What is already known about this topic?: Endemic fluorosis, caused by high fluoride levels in drinking water, has been a significant health issue in rural areas of China for many decades. What is added by this report?: There has been a notable decline in the detection rate of dental fluorosis in children aged 8-12 years in drinking water fluorosis areas across the country from 2009 to 2022. While 14 provincial-level administrative divisions are classified as low-probability clusters, Tianjin remains classified as a high-probability cluster. What are the implications for public health practice?: The current policy for preventing and controlling endemic fluorosis in China needs adjustment. Rather than focusing solely on regions with high incidence, there should be a shift towards monitoring and early warning of fluoride exposure. Additionally, local containment measures should be intensified.