March 16, 2000
PUBLIC WATER SYSTEMS RECOGNIZED
SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) have recognized 364 community water systems for maintaining the state mandated fluoride level in drinking water for each month in 1999.
"The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently announced that community water fluoridation is one of the top 10 achievements in public health in the 20th century" said Dr. John R. Lumpkin, state public health director. "Water fluoridation is the most equitable and cost effective method of delivering the oral health benefits of fluoride."
Of those recognized, 126 systems earned a commendation for meeting required fluoride levels for at least five consecutive years, 16 for at least 10 years and five for at least 15 years. Another 80 communities received honorable mention for reaching fluoridation standards for 11 of 12 months during 1999.
"My agency joins IDPH in congratulating water supply operators for their diligence in maintaining optimum fluoride levels for the benefit of the public" said IEPA Director Thomas V. Skinner.
Fluoride is found naturally in water, but in many communities the amount of the mineral is too low and does not meet the required standards. When this occurs, fluoride must be added to the water to provide the most oral health benefits to the community. Currently, 950 water systems add fluoride to their water.
System operators send water samples to a certified lab on a monthly basis for testing and IDPH monitors the sample results to ensure fluoride levels meet state standards.
Studies have found that for every dollar spent on fluoridation as much as $56 in dental care costs are saved. Fluoridating a community water supply costs an average of 20 cents to 30 cents per person served.
A list of those honored is attached.
To view a list of the water systems receiving 1999 compliance awards, click here. PDF Format, 125K
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Illinois Department
of Public Health 535 West Jefferson Street Springfield, Illinois 62761 Phone 217-782-4977 Fax 217-782-3987 TTY 800-547-0466 Questions or Comments |