ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT: Fluoride in groundwater has both natural and anthropogenic sources. Fluoride bearing minerals, volcanic gases and various industrial and agricultural activities can contribute to high concentrations. High intake of fluoride from drinking water is the main cause of fluorosis and may lead to many other health problems. Problems usually start with intake of water containing more that 1.5 mg/ of fluoride (WHO guideline). Many water supplies in Africa are contaminated by much higher concentrations of fluoride. Alternative water sources, improvement of the nutritional status of populations at risk and appropriate defluoridation methods are potential options for mitigation of high fluoride effects. Regarding defluoridation, there is not a universal method which is appropriate under all social, financial, environmental and technical conditions.
