Determination of Fluoride Concentration in Drinking Water Resource at Lao P.D.R.

Introduction: Consuming water from different sources might lead to different fluoride intake levels for human health. High or low-concentration contamination can cause risk factors for human health, such as dental cavities, dental fluorosis, and skeletal tissues. Accordingly, there is limited evidence of fluoride contamination in drinking water among Lao people.

Aims: To estimate the level of fluoride concentration in drinking water sources and describe fluoride water drinking knowledge and behavior among Lao people.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in two areas of Laos, the northern and the southern, from May to December 2023.

Methodology: A cross-section was performed. The questionnaires were used in face-to-face interviews to gather information about participants, such as demographics, fluoride knowledge, and drinking water behavior. Testing for fluoride content was conducted using an ExStik FL700 fluoride meter from Extech Instrument. The data analysis was done using SPSS for descriptive analysis.

Results: A total of 496 samples (36% male and 63.10% female; range ages 16–85 years). The study involved contributing fluoride to 118 samples of drinking water that were collected for a criterion. The study found low fluoride concentration levels, a mean of 0.124 ppm, 82.3% of bottled water consumed by drinking more than 2 liters per day, and 91.30% don't know about fluoride.

Conclusion: To prevent dental caries and the risk of dental fluorosis, fluoride concentration levels in drinking water are essential for detection to ensure compliance with recommended fluoride arrangements for routine protocol.