The Department commissioned research into the effects of fluoridation on health. “A Systematic Review of Public Water Fluoridation” published by the University of York in 2000 found no clear association between, water fluoridation and cancer, but called for further research to strengthen the evidence base.
A subsequent research study commissioned from the Medical Research Council, Water fluoridation and health (2002) stated that:
“although available evidence suggests no link between water fluoridation and either cancer in general or any specific cancer type (including osteosarcoma, primary bone cancer), an updated analysis of UK data on fluoridation and cancer rates is recommended.”
Both documents have been placed in the Library. Accordingly, section 58 of the Water Act 2003 placed a duty on strategic health authorities (SHAs) to monitor the effects of fluoridation schemes on the health of persons living in the fluoridated area and publish reports containing an analysis of the effects on health at four-yearly intervals.
We have commissioned the West Midland Public Health Observatory to propose a set of standard indicators, which can be used by SHAs to discharge this duty. We understand that, in compiling its proposals, the Observatory is considering whether data on the incidence of bone cancer held in cancer registries could be included among the indicators.
The capital costs will depend upon the extent of the area it is proposed to fluoridate. North West Strategic Health Authority is still considering the options in the light of a feasibility study it commissioned from the water company. Evidence from existing fluoridation schemes suggests that the recurring costs of fluoridation are about 80 pence per head of population per year. This compares to an average of £40 per person spent each year on national health service dental services.