Twice as Many Ontario Residents Support Community Water Fluoridation Than Oppose It
Written by admin, August 13, 2014
August 13, 2014 – Research shows that twice as many Ontario residents support community water fluoridation than oppose it.
A Provincial Health Indicator report shows that 56% of Ontario residents are in favour of fluoridating community water supplies, while only 23% opposed it. More than 1,800 adults 18 years and older from Ontario households were surveyed in 2011, the last time this data was gathered by the Rapid Risk Factor Surveillance System (RRFSS). RRFSS is an ongoing telephone survey used to gather surveillance data, monitor public opinion on key public health issues, and collect information on emerging issues of importance to public health in Ontario.
“The data is clear that the majority of people understand that fluoride prevents tooth decay and wish to see this practice continued for the benefit of the whole community,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health at Peterborough Public Health.
Dr. Salvaterra noted the report also showed that 21% of respondents were unsure whether they supported or opposed fluoride. She encouraged those who are still making up their minds to use credible, unbiased scientific sources for their information. “There is a lot of misinformation on the internet about fluoridation put out there by conspiracy theorists and groups with corporate interests,” said Dr. Salvaterra. “One of the best things you can do is consult websites of third-party, scientific health agencies like Health Canada or Public Health Ontario that provide unbiased reviews of the scientific literature and who aren’t driven by political agendas.”
To access a copy of the report, visit: http://www.durham.ca/departments/health/health_statistics/rrfss/WaterFluoridation.pdf .
Local fluoride information is also available on www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca.
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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence
Communications Supervisor
(705) 743-1000, ext. 391