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Water fluoridation information found on the World Wide Web
Christine Kim1, Loren G Yamamoto
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Hawaii John A. Burns, School of Medicine, USA. ckim2@hawaii.edu
Hawaii Medical Journal
|August 10, 2004
Summary
The internet presents mixed information on community water fluoridation, with more websites recommending it than opposing it. Public health officials should monitor online content influencing public opinion on this issue.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Environmental Health
- Health Communication
Background:
- Community water fluoridation is a debated public health measure.
- The internet, specifically the World Wide Web (WWW), is a significant source of public information.
- Understanding the nature of online information is crucial for public health messaging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the informational content of websites discussing water fluoridation.
- To assess the stance of online resources regarding community water fluoridation.
Main Methods:
- A systematic search identified 100 websites related to water fluoridation.
- Fifty-nine websites were evaluated using a 6-point scoring system with predefined criteria.
Main Results:
- A majority of evaluated websites (54%) recommended water fluoridation.
- A substantial portion of sites (31%) opposed water fluoridation.
- The informational content varied, including factual data, unsubstantiated opinions, and misinformation.
Conclusions:
- Online information on water fluoridation is diverse and presented without distinction between credible and non-credible sources.
- The World Wide Web significantly influences public perception of community water fluoridation.
- Public health professionals and medical practitioners must recognize the internet's impact on public opinion and address online misinformation.