The Black Hawk County Board of Health has approved updated position statements supporting community water fluoridation and opposing the retail sale of raw milk.
The board said the updates reflect current scientific research and local health priorities. The action follows a January vote to revise the board’s position statement on radon as part of an ongoing review of public health policies.
Water Fluoridation
The board reaffirmed its support for community water fluoridation, which adjusts fluoride in public water systems to 0.7 milligrams per liter, the level recommended by the U.S. Public Health Service to prevent tooth decay.
Health officials said fluoridation remains one of the most studied public health measures in the United States, backed by more than 75 years of research.
Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in children and also affects adults. In Black Hawk County, more than one-third of children and adolescents show signs of tooth decay, and dental-related emergency department visits exceed the state average.
The board said fluoridation at recommended levels is safe, effective and cost-efficient, reducing tooth decay by about 25% in children and adults. It also benefits residents regardless of age, income or access to dental care.
“Community water fluoridation is a foundational prevention strategy that benefits the entire community,” Board of Health Chair Disa Cornish said in a statement. “It is a safe and cost-effective way to improve oral health and prevent unnecessary pain and treatment.”
Original article online at: https://cbs2iowa.com/news/local/black-hawk-county-board-of-health-updates-positions-on-water-fluoridation-raw-milk-fluoride-pasteurized-milk