HL Deb 08 February 1999 vol 597 cc1-2WA
Earl Baldwin of Bewdley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

In the light of the scientific evidence which suggests that some people are allergic to fluoride (Fluoride 1993; 26,4:267–273), what alternative provision is being made for those who receive fluoridated water in this country. [HL790]

Baroness Hayman

The British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology (BSACI) advises that there is no evidence that fluoridation adversely affects the immune system. BSACI and the American Association for the Study of Allergies agree that there is no evidence of allergy or intolerance to fluoride as used in the fluoridation of community water supplies. We do not therefore see a need for any alternative provision.

Earl Baldwin of Bewdley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Which scientific studies indicate that dental fluorosis is only a cosmetic side-effect of water fluoridation and not an early indication of systemic toxicity. [HL791]

Baroness Hayman

A useful summary is contained in the "Findings and Conclusions" section ofReview of Fluoride: Benefits and Risks (Department of Health and Human Services USA 1991). We have arranged for copies to be placed in the Library.

Earl Baldwin of Bewdley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answers by the Baroness Hayman on 3 September 1998 (WA 24) and 21 January 1999 (WA 120), how they know what are "typical intakes of fluoride at levels experienced by the population of this country", if monitoring of fluoride exposure from all sources by means of urine samples, as recommended in the Report of the United Kingdom Mission (1953) cited in the Written Answer by Baroness Hayman on 26 January (WA 144), and bone assays where appropriate, is not carried out. [HL792]

Baroness Hayman

The derivation of estimates of fluoride intakes is explained in Chapter 36 of the sixth (1994) and later impressions of the Department of Health Report on Health and Social Subjects 41 "Dietary reference values for food energy and nutrients for the United Kingdom". The 1994 report included an estimate that adults had a mean intake of 1.82 mg per day in non-fluoridated water areas and 2.90 mg per day in fluoridated areas, assuming an average consumption of 1.1 litres of water daily. We are considering how we might supplement this information by testing systemic levels of fluoride in a sample of the population.