[Fluorides in water for consumption in northern and western Mexico]

The amount of fluoride in water in some regions of Mexico represents a public health problem. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of original studies that report fluoride levels in tap and bottled water from the northern and western regions of Mexico. A systematic review was conducted using the PRISMA method in PubMed, Scopus, Medigraphic and Scielo databases. The keywords fluoride OR fluorosis AND water AND Mexico were used for the search and the records found were included and excluded according to the previous established criteria. We reviewed data in articles published between January 1st, 2010 and March 30th, 2021. We identified a total of 36 records. Most showed data found in the western region (n = 23), while the rest reported data found in the north. Both regions reported maximum and mean sample ranges above those suggested by the World Health Organization and national regulations. According to the analyzed data, in Mexico, the northern and western regions of the country show a concerning situation due to the high levels of fluoride reported by many authors in tap and bottled water. Almost all authors reported data above those recommended for national and international regulations, which represent an important public health problem that requires attention.