The economic value of Quebec's water fluoridation program

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Economics
• Dental Public Health

Background:

• Dental caries presents a significant global public health challenge, with notable impacts in Canada and Quebec.
• Water fluoridation is recognized as a highly effective strategy for preventing dental caries and mitigating oral health disparities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a cost-effectiveness analysis of Quebec's water fluoridation program.
• To provide economic data to inform decision-makers on the program's value.

Main Methods:

• A logic model was developed using documentary analysis.
• Implementation costs were calculated from data from 15 municipalities.
• Cost-effectiveness was analyzed, incorporating caries treatment costs, travel, and lost productivity.

Main Results:

• The water fluoridation program demonstrated cost-effectiveness, even with a conservative 1% reduction in dental caries.
• A 30% caries reduction yielded a benefit-cost ratio of $71.05-$82.83 per capita.
• The program is projected to save over $560 million for the state and taxpayers.

Conclusions:

• The drinking-water fluoridation program generates substantial economic savings.
• Public health officials can utilize these findings to advocate for the widespread implementation of this proven intervention.