New Qld mayors pressed on fluoridated water

Queensland doctors have seized on recent local government elections in the state to urge all new mayors to make fluoridated drinking water available to their local communities.

Dr Dilip Dhupelia

Australian Medical Association (AMA) Queensland President Dr Dilip Dhupelia says 19 local government areas don’t provide fluoridation, despite overwhelming evidence it is a safe and effective way to prevent tooth decay.

Almost one three Queenslanders currently don’t have access to fluoridated water, he says.

“There is no coincidence that the 19 councils in Queensland that do not have fluoridated water have corresponding high rates of dental decay,” Dr Dhupelia said.

“It’s disappointing that these councils have failed to provide this public health measure to their ratepayers, despite its proven benefits.”

He says mayors elected to councils without fluoridated water must ensure it is delivered to their local communities.

“AMA Queensland is calling on the Mayors of these 19 Councils to commit to the reintroduction of fluoride so their communities can reap the health benefits of drinking fluoridated water throughout their life,” Dr Dhupelia said....