Finian McGrath
Ceist:252. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health if he has any major health concerns about unsafe mass medication through fluoridation of water in this State. [18205/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 18 April 2013
Ceisteanna (252)
Freagraí scríofa
Water fluoridation is the adjustment of a naturally occurring element found in water in order to prevent tooth decay. In 2002 the Forum on Fluoridation, which was established to review this policy, concluded that the fluoridation of public piped water supplies should continue as a public health measure.
The Irish Expert Body on Fluorides and Health, established in 2004, monitors new and emerging issues on fluoride and its effects. It advises that the balance of scientific evidence worldwide confirms that water fluoridation, at the optimal level, does not cause any ill effects and is the safest and most cost effective method of protecting the oral health of the population. The opinion of the Expert Body is supported by the World Health Organisation, the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, the Public Health Service and the Surgeon General of the United States, the World Dental Federation, the International Association for Dental Research, the Royal College of Physicians of England and by major international scientifically validated reviews in many countries. The effects of fluoridation on health and related matters are kept under constant review.