Fluoridation Update
October 22, 1999 / 48(41);933-940 Achievements in Public Health, 1900-1999: Fluoridation of Drinking Water to Prevent Dental Caries Fluoridation of community drinking water is a major factor responsible for the decline in dental caries (tooth decay) during the second half of the 20th century. The history of water fluoridation is a classic example of clinical observation leading to epidemiologic investigation and community-based public health intervention. Although other fluoride-containing products are available, water fluoridation remains the most equitable and cost-effective method of delivering fluoride to all members of most communities, regardless of age, educational attainment, or income level. Dental Caries Dental caries is an infectious, communicable, multifactorial disease in which bacteria dissolve the enamel surface of a tooth (1). Unchecked, the bacteria then may penetrate the …
Continue Reading >Food Safety: What Are the Real Issues?
The American food supply is abundant, affordable and appealing. And contrary to pop-nutritionist claims, it’s nutritious when the right dietary choices are made. As things stand now, Americans certainly enjoy the safest and most wholesome food in the history of mankind. We should be proud of that achievement and have faith in our food system. Yet many are worried that our food supply is dangerous. Actually, unsafe food has bothered people since time immemorial. It took thousands of years to understand how contamination and spoilage can cause discomfort, illness or death. These insights developed slowly through a process of trial and error. Today’s scientists are trying to determine what relationships—if any—exist between diet or specific foods and such problems as cancer, heart disease, allergy, and …
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