FLUOROSIS CONTROL PROGRAMME (NPPCF)

NATIONAL PROGRAMME FOR PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF FLUOROSIS (NPPCF)

To address the problem of fluorosis, mainly due to intake of high fluoride through drinking water, the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Fluorosis (NPPCF) was initiated in 2009 in Dharmapuri District. Strategies:

  • Surveillance of fluorosis in the community and school children.
  • Capacity building in the form of training and man power support.
  • Diagnostic facilities in the form of laboratory support & equipment including ion meter to monitor the fluoride content in water and urinary levels; health education.
  • Management of fluorosis cases by providing for corrective surgeries and rehabilitation.

Since initiation, 42887 people in 141 villages surveyed. There are about 79 Fluoride affected villages (data from MDWS as on Dec 2018) and 137 Fluoride affected habitations (data from MDWS as on Dec 2018 ).

Children between 6-11 years surveyed in 551 schools. In which 19514 were suspected with dental fluorosis.

Last January a surgery done for Skeletal Fluorosis affected child (Date of surgery 24.1.17) child in recovery.

Video spot / Interviews with experts on local TV / Community Radio.Posters are put up in all PHCs, GH, Dharmapuri Medical college, Schools, ICDS and Fluoride affected villages.Pamphlets / booklets distributed to all Medical Officers, Laboratory Technicians, Paramedicals, CHN, SHN, VHN, HI, BHS, ANH, NMS, Health Workers of ASHA and AWWs, Child Development Department, PMOA'S (Paramedical Ophthalmic Assistant) ICDS (CDPO'S), IMA Doctors & School Teachers and Habitation Villages.