The surveillance framework of water and the reporting of fluoride concentration indicators

Abstract

Water surveillance is an essential strategy to ensure safety and high quality standards for human consumption. Among the parameters, fluoride stands out. The objective of this study was to describe the surveillance framework of water quality and present a proposal of indicators and dissemination of information to the population regarding the fluoride concentration indicators. Based on main scientific evidences, it is explained the importance of maintaining the parameter under control in the supplies systems and it is presented a concise description of the water surveillance framework in Brazil, showing that the design does not offer indicators for longitudinally monitoring the parameter or visibility to all those who have right to information. Next, the operational and technical foundations of Public Water Supply Fluoridation Surveillance System are presented, a proposal to improve the framework. Indicators to the dissemination of the information are described, arguing that the Country has resources and conditions to overcome the precariousness of information on fluoride concentration and on the coverage of water fluoridation in all units of national territory.