Fluoride toxicity: contribution of water and food a study with reference to certain fluorotic and non-fluorotic areas of Tamilnadu

Abstract

This thesis embodies the results of studies on quotFluoride toxicity Contribution of water and food, with reference to certain fluorotic and non-fluorotic areas of Tamilnaduquot. The Thesis is divided into four chapters. In the first chapter, a general introduction about the various manifestations of fluoride toxicity is given. Concepts of ionic, non-ionic and total fluoride, contribution of water and food to total intake of fluoride and various other factors influencing the fluoride toxicity are discussed. The problem of fluorosis in various parts of the world and also in several states of India has been reviewed. The need and objectives of the present study are clearly spelt at the end of this chapter. The second chapter deals with the methodology adopted in this study in detail. The criteria for the selection of controls and fluorotic areas and also for the selection of families in each area are given. Methods of analysis of drinking water for fluoride, hardness, alkalinity, pH, chlorides, sulphates, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, molybdenum, copper, zinc, manganese and strontium are presented in detail. Analysis of fluorides in chief staple food grains grown in the areas under study, by the fluoride electrode method is described. Details of analysis of trace ions by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Emission Spectroscopy (ICPES) are presented. The methodology developed in the present study for assessment of contribution of water and food separately to the total intake of fluoride, and various other ions listed above is also dealt with at the end of this chapter. newline Experimental results, analysis of the data, and the related discussions comprise the third chapter of this thesis. The problem of fluoride toxicity is analysed in the light of the results of water analysis for fluoride, various chemical parameters and other constituents and also based on the results of the analysis of the diet consumed by the people, for fluoride and all other inorganic