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Public attitudes concerning water fluoridation in Denmark.
Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology
|September 1, 1976
Summary
Public opinion on water fluoridation in Denmark shows significant opposition, with nearly half of adults surveyed opposing the practice. This contrasts with earlier findings, suggesting a growing trend of negative sentiment towards community water fluoridation.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Social Science
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Water fluoridation is a public health measure aimed at preventing tooth decay.
- Understanding public attitudes is crucial for the implementation and acceptance of public health policies.
- Previous studies have indicated varying levels of support for water fluoridation globally and within Denmark.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess current attitudes towards water fluoridation among adult Danes.
- To identify demographic and behavioral factors associated with opinions on water fluoridation.
- To compare current attitudes with previous findings on water fluoridation in Denmark.
Main Methods:
- A national probability sample of 1,600 adult Danes was surveyed.
- Data on attitudes, demographics (sex, age, occupation, residence), and dental behavior were collected.
- Statistical analysis was used to examine differences in opinion.
Main Results:
- 23% of adult Danes favored water fluoridation, while 48% opposed it, and 29% were undecided.
- Significant differences in opinion were observed based on sex, age, occupation, residence, and dental behavior.
- A notable increase in expressed opposition to water fluoridation was identified compared to earlier Danish studies.
Conclusions:
- Public opposition to water fluoridation is substantial among adult Danes.
- Demographic and behavioral factors influence public perception of water fluoridation.
- There appears to be a growing trend of opposition to water fluoridation in Denmark, necessitating further investigation into the underlying reasons.