July 2007

FLUORIDATED WATER SUPPLIES TO BENEFIT DENTAL HEALTH

Drinking water supplies in Warrnambool, Allansford and Koroit are to be fluoridated, Victoria’s Chief Health Officer, Dr John Carnie said today.

“The decision to fluoridate Warrnambool, Allansford and Koroit’s drinking water supply has been taken following the provision of information to these communities about fluoridation,” Dr Carnie said.

“The dental health benefits of fluoridated water supplies are proven – all the medical and scientific research validates its use.

“The decision follows demonstrated support for fluoridation from South West Healthcare, the Otway Division of General Practice and a number of health professionals including dentists, dental therapists, pharmacists and maternal and child health nurses.

“Wannon Water customers in Warrnambool, Allansford and Koroit received information about water fluoridation and were also encouraged to seek further information from their dentist, GP, pharmacist or maternal and child health nurse or through a special toll free information line.

“Water fluoridation is safe and effective and helps protect everybody’s teeth against decay regardless of age, gender, income or education levels.

“In particular, children who live in fluoridated areas of Victoria experience considerably less decay than those in non-fluoridated areas,” he said.

Wannon Water has been requested by the Secretary of the Department of Human Services to fluoridate the drinking water supply for Warrnambool, Allansford and Koroit.

The communities will be kept informed about timing and further information is available by calling

1800 651 723. Additional information about fluoridation is available by visiting www.health.vic.gov.au/environment/water/fluoridation.htm

The State Government is committed to improving the oral health of all Victorians.

In this year’s State budget an additional $1.5 million was provided to extend water fluoridation throughout rural and regional Victoria.

Water fluoridation is supported by well-recognised Australian and international health organisations including the World Health Organisation, the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council, the Australian Dental Association and the Australian Medical Association, Dental Health Services Victoria, the Dental Therapists Association, the University of Melbourne School of Dental Science, the Royal Children’s Hospital Department of Dentistry, VicHealth, the Australian Centre for Human Health Risk Assessment, the Public Health Association of Australia, the Cancer Council of Victoria, Osteoporosis Australia and Arthritis Australia.

Media inquiries:

Bram Alexander, Human Services Media Unit, (03) 9096 8803, mobile 0412 260 811