Endemic-Fluorosis (Fluorosis Prevention & Control Mission) A-Policy,Leadership and Management

Fluoride is required for normal development and growth of the body. Excessive consumption of fluorides in various forms leads to development of fluorosis. Fluorosis is a crippling disease resulted from deposition of fluorides in the hard and soft tissues of the body. It has emerged as an important public health problem in India. It affects multiple body organs and systems, Its clinical manifestations start from damaged and discolored teeth and end in crippling conditions. It is estimated that in India, over 18 million people are affected by dental fluorosis and nearly eight million people by skeletal fluorosis. The root cause of this fluorosis is the excess fluoride levels in drinking water, lack of awareness, nutritional deficiencies and lack of diagnostic facilities, lack of intersectoral/departmental coordination. Hence, addressing these issues is essential for a successful fluorosis prevention and control.