Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #103381

Julie Ann Janssen, RDH, MA, Division of Oral Health, Illinois Department of Health, IDPH, 535 W Jefferson 2nd Fl, Springfield, IL 62761, (217) 785-4899, jjanssen@idph.state.il.us

Community water fluoridation is the most effective public health measure available to prevent and control dental caries. This poster presentation examines the successes, as well as challenges we face in attempting to provide optimal fluoridation for populations served by fluoridated community water systems. Illinois is one of only twelve states that have mandatory fluoridation laws. The Illinois Fluoridation Statute was enacted in 1967. This statute requires all community water systems to adjust fluoride to optimal levels (0.90 - 1.20 milligrams per liter). The Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Oral Health coordinates a complex system of organizational, financial and delivery systems in order to assure fluoride levels within legal range. Key components of the program include: (1) administration; (2) reporting; (3) training; (4) inspection; (5) technical assistance; and (6)monitoring and surveillance. As a result, Illinois meets and surpasses the Healthy People 2010 oral health objective for water fluoridation guaranteeing improved oral health for every resident of the state.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to

• Describe the historical analyisis of successes and challenges faced by state programs as they assure optimal fluoridation for residents.
• Understand the importance of maintaining a comprehensive community water fluoridation program adhering to the CDC Engineering and Administrative Recommendations for Water Fluoridation.
• Promote interventions that help assure optimal fluoridation benefits for all residents that meet the Healthy People 2010 objective.

Keywords: Oral Health,

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.