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Logan County water systems on the
list for recognition were:
-
Atlanta Water
Department
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Broadwell Water
Department
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Illinois American
Water Co., Lincoln
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Mount Pulaski Water
Department
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New Holland Water Department
Illinois American Water in Lincoln has earned the award for 17
consecutive years, 1995-2011. Mount Pulaski has earned the award for
five consecutive years, 2007-2011.
"Water fluoridation can improve overall oral health for both
children and adults, and studies show water fluoridation reduces
tooth decay by about 25 percent over a person's lifetime," said Dr.
David Miller, chief of the IDPH Division of Oral Health. "We applaud
those communities that maintain levels of fluoride in their water
systems and encourage them to continue their efforts."
Of those recognized, 81 systems earned a commendation for meeting
state-recommended fluoride levels of 0.9 to 1.2 parts per million
for at least five consecutive years, 47 for at least 10 years, 79
for at least 15 years, 16 for at least 20 years, eight for at least
25 years, and one for at least 30 years. Another 122 communities
received honorable mentions for meeting state fluoride levels 11 of
12 months in 2011.
"Maintaining optimum fluoride levels provides an important
benefit for the public. The Illinois EPA congratulates these water
supply operators for all their efforts to diligently ensure fluoride
levels to their respective communities," said John J. Kim, interim
director of the IEPA.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, has long
acknowledged the public benefits of fluoridation of water systems.
In fact, drinking fluoridated water from birth can reduce tooth
decay by 40 to 65 percent. In Illinois, communities have practiced
water fluoridation for more than 60 years, and fluoride continues to
prove beneficial in the battle against tooth decay.
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 Approximately 99 percent of Illinois residents served by public
water systems receive the benefit of fluoridated drinking water,
compared with the current national average of approximately 72
percent. Fluoride is found naturally in water, but in many
communities the amount of the mineral is too low and does not meet
the required standards.
Water operators will add fluoride to fulfill optimal health
benefits to the communities. Of the 1,789 water supplies in
Illinois, 831 systems adjust fluoride levels, and another 785 either
have adequate natural fluoride or are connected to an adjusted
system.
For a complete list of Illinois water systems receiving the
compliance awards, click here.
[Text from
Illinois Department of Public Health
file received from the
Illinois Office of
Communication and Information]
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