Occurrence of fluoride at excessive levels in drinking-water in developing countries is a serious problem. Its detection demands analytical grade chemicals and laboratory equipment and skills. Similarly, the prevention of Fluorosis through management of drinking-water is a difficult task, which requires favorable conditions combining knowledge, motivation, prioritization, discipline and technical and organizational support. Many filter media and several water treatment methods are known to remove fluoride from water. However, many initiatives on De-fluoridation of water have resulted in frustration and failure. Therefore, in any attempt to mitigate fluoride contamination for an affected community, the provision of safe, low fluoride water from alternative sources, either as an alternative source or for blending, should be investigated as the first option. In cases where alternative sources are not available, De-fluoridation of water is the only measure remaining to prevent Fluorosis. However, there are several different De-fluoridation methods. What may work in one community may not work in another. What may be appropriate at a certain time and stage of urbanization may not be at another. It is therefore most important to select an appropriate De-fluoridation method carefully if a sustainable solution to a Fluorosis problem is to be achieved.
K. C. Patil (Fri,) studied this question.