Analysis of Water Fluoridation Debates on Meta Platforms Using Advanced Machine Learning Approaches

Social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, play a pivotal role in shaping public opinion on health interventions, including community water fluoridation (CWF). Despite its recognition as a safe and effective public health measure, CWF remains a polarizing topic, with misinformation on these platforms contributing to public mistrust. This study collected 109,117 Facebook and Instagram posts from 2014 to 2023 to examine public sentiment surrounding CWF. The analysis revealed a mix of opinions, with 42.1% positive, 39.1% negative, and 18.8% neutral sentiments. Trends highlighted a surge in negative sentiment during 2017-2019, likely influenced by misinformation and significant public events, while positive sentiment has gradually regained ground in recent years. Key themes included health benefits, safety concerns, and government trust, with positive discussions emphasizing CWF's role in public health and negative discussions focusing on risks and chemical exposure. The study employed advanced sentiment analysis models to highlight the importance of monitoring public discourse and addressing misinformation, thereby promoting trust and support for evidence-based health policies, such as CWF. These findings offer digital data-driven insights for public health communication strategies, enhancing community understanding and acceptance of vital health interventions.Knowledge Transfer Statement:The findings of this study can inform public health agencies and policymakers about public concerns and support for water fluoridation. By identifying sentiment trends and misinformation on social media, communication strategies can be tailored to improve public understanding and acceptance of fluoridation as a preventive health measure.