Fluorosis in the Northern Region of Tanganyika

A survey has been carried out in the Northern Region of Tanganyika where the fluorine content of some water sources is known to be abnormally high. 775 persons were examined, and 112 of these X-rayed. Those X-rayed were 40 years of age or over and had drunk water with high fluorine content for 10 years or more. Details are given of findings related to teeth, nails and thyroid gland. Dental fluorosis was found in 93.4 per cent. but the incidence of dental caries was comparatively low. Nail changes were found in 37.1 per cent. and goitre in 22.8 per cent. 87 per cent. of those X-rayed presented bony changes, some severe. The various radiological findings are described.