Water fluoridation would be effective, report says

Around 400 million people in 25 countries are served by fluoridation schemes

Adding fluoride to the Isle of Man's water supply would be an "effective and safe" way to reduce tooth decay but further research into the approach would be needed, a report has said.

The public health directorate was asked to produce a research paper following a Social Affairs Policy Review Committee investigation into children’s oral health.

The report said evidence indicated water fluoridation was "highly cost-effective" but the intervention raised ethical issues as it would be "fairly difficult to opt out".

If consideration was given to a policy moving forward, engagement with the public was "crucial" and more robust data would be required, it stated.

The Tynwald committee had put forward seven recommendations, including the offer of twice-yearly fluoride varnish applications to all pre and primary school age children.

But Tynwald members backed an amendment by Health Minister Lawrie Hooper for further research to be carried out on the impact of water fluoridation across the population.

'Complex subject'

The report details how around 400 million people in 25 countries are served by fluoridation schemes.

The authors found all literature reviewed agreed the process was a "highly effective method" but said a feasibility study to provide more detailed information about costs, timescales and the potential return on investment would be needed.

It was also noted that it was a "complex subject that attracts significant public debate, interest and concern" and there had been no engagement with the public while compiling the report, which would be "crucial" if a policy on the issue were to progress.

It recommended a "comprehensive picture" of the oral health of children on the Isle of Man be built, using recent survey findings and a planned epidemiology study of five-year-old children, with a report to be presented to the Health, Learning and Social Policy Board by August 2024.