Fluorosis is a crippling disease caused by the consumption of water and food containing excessive levels of fluoride. It results in major health disorders like dental fluorosis, skeletal fluorosis and non-skeletal fluorosis.
To tackle the problem, Govemment of India launched the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Fluorosis (NPPCF). The Desirable limit for Fluoride in drinking water, as per NPPCF Guidelines of 2014, is 1.0 mg / litre, Currently, NPPCF is being implemented in 163 Districts across 19 StatesfuT including the State of AndhraPradesh and is being expanded in a phased manner.
Objectives of the programme are as follows:
- Assess and use the baseline survey data of Fluorosis provided by the Departrnent of, D.inking Water and Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti
- Capacity building for prevention, diagnosis and management of Fluorosis cases.
- Comprehensive management of Fluorosis in the selected areas
The strategy followed under the programme is as follows:
- Capacity building (Human Resources) in the form of training and manpower support
- Establishment of diagnostic facilities in the district
- Surveillance of Fluorosis in the community
- Management of Fluorosis cases including supplementation, surgery and rehabilitation.
- Health education for prevention and control of Fluorosis cases
Through the NPPCF Programme, support is being provided at the District level for: -
- Strengthening manpower in endemic districts by providing for:
- Consultant (1),
- Laboratory Technician (1),
- Field Investigator (3) for six months
- Purchase of equipment for the lab including an Ion meter for water and urinary analysis of fluoride levels.
- Training of medical and paramedical workers at various levels.
- Health Education and Publicity.
- Supplementation with vitamins and minerals and ffeatment including reconstructive surgery and rehabilitation
Key Highlights under the Programme
The programme is now being implemented in 163 Districts across 19 States/ UTs.
