The need for improving levels of awareness among people about the harmful effects of excessive fluorides in the body was underscored by speakers at a continuing medical education programme on fluorosis conducted by the Fluorosis Research and Rural Development Foundation, Andhra Pradesh Red Cross Society, here on Sunday.

The Executive Director of the Foundation, A.K. Susheela, said doctors needed to continuously update themselves with the latest knowledge in combating fluorosis. Unlike in the past, it could now be detected very easily using simple procedures and if detected early, could easily be treated, he said.

The Secretary of A P Red Cross, Rajyalaxmi, said there was enough information available with them about fluorosis, which doctors could easily access.

A study in Anantapur district had found that water there contained fluoride from 0.2 mg per kg to 11 mg per kg.

Samir Dutta, Head, Department of Paediatric Dentistry, Government Dental College, Rohtak, Haryana, said fluorides greater than one part per million led to weakening of teeth due to loss of calcium.

He said adopting a holistic approach, avoiding a sugary diet and maintaining proper oral hygiene could easily prevent dental caries.

Among others who participated were the president of Andhra Pradesh Private Hospitals and Nursing Homes Associations, N.L.N. Sharma, and others from the Algeria-returned Indian Friends Association of Doctors.

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