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Sociodemographic Determinants of Knowledge and Risk Perception Regarding Community Fluoridation: A Cross-Sectional
Catalina Iulia Saveanu1, Hociung Roxana2, Bogdan Ioan Condrea2
1Department of Dent-Alveolar and Maxillo-Facial Surgery, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Grigore T Popa, 700115 Iasi, Romania.
Epidemiologia (Basel, Switzerland)
|May 27, 2026
Summary
Community water fluoridation awareness is high, but understanding of methods and risks like dental fluorosis is limited. Sociodemographic factors significantly influence public perception of fluoride safety and effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Dental Research
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Community fluoridation is a key public health strategy for preventing dental caries.
- Public knowledge and risk perception regarding fluoridation vary significantly.
- Understanding these variations is crucial for effective public health communication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess public knowledge and attitudes towards community fluoridation.
- To identify sociodemographic factors influencing perceptions of fluoridation.
- To evaluate awareness of fluoride, its benefits, methods, and risks like dental fluorosis.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 200 adults in Iași, Romania.
- Data collected via self-administered questionnaires in May-June 2023.
- Statistical analysis using Chi-square tests to determine associations.
Main Results:
- High familiarity with fluoride (94%) and its protective role (91%) was observed.
- Lower awareness regarding fluoridation methods (34%) and dental fluorosis (53%).
- Educational level correlated with water fluoridation awareness (p < 0.001); gender with safety perceptions (p = 0.049). Perceived toxicity strongly linked to safety attitudes (p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- While general awareness of fluoride is high, specific understanding of its application and risks remains limited.
- Sociodemographic factors significantly shape public knowledge and risk perception of community fluoridation.
- Targeted communication strategies are necessary to address knowledge gaps and improve public understanding.
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