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Economic evaluations in water-fluoridation: a scoping review
Rodrigo Mariño1, Carlos Zaror2,3
1Melbourne Dental School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
BMC Oral Health
|April 18, 2020
Summary
Community water fluoridation (CWF) is a proven public health strategy for preventing dental caries. Economic evaluations consistently show CWF is a cost-effective intervention, offering significant value for community resources.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Economics
- Dental Public Health
Background:
- Community water fluoridation (CWF) is a cornerstone of dental caries prevention globally.
- Decision-making requires more than just effectiveness and safety data; economic evaluations (EE) are crucial.
- This study systematically reviews the economic evidence for CWF.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize the existing literature on economic evaluations of community water fluoridation.
- To provide evidence to support decision-makers regarding resource allocation for CWF programs.
Main Methods:
- Systematic database search (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, LILACS, etc.) up to August 2019.
- Inclusion of full economic evaluations of CWF programs in English, Spanish, or Portuguese.
- Independent selection and data extraction by two researchers, followed by qualitative synthesis.
Main Results:
- 24 studies met inclusion criteria, including cost-benefit, cost-effectiveness, and cost-utility analyses.
- All studies concluded CWF is cost-effective compared to non-fluoridated communities.
- Reported caries reduction ranged from 25-40%, with outcomes including caries averted and dental treatment cost savings.
Conclusions:
- Community water fluoridation is an economically sound use of public resources.
- Economic evaluations support CWF as a valuable strategy across diverse settings.
- Findings aid decision-makers in resource allocation for dental public health initiatives.
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