Drinking behavior in Banlumklang villagers, a high fluoride content in water area.

Abstract

Banlumklang, Tambol Maesan, Lampang province was a high fluoride content in water area. August 2000, Flouoride content in tap water was 10.48 mg/l. Fluorosis status of 10-14 years old children was found in 12 children, score 3-5.After the villagers perceived the problem, the dental department Hangchat hospital gave them knowledge about fluoride, fluorosis and water sanitation, took them to Chiangmai and Lampoon to get knowhow. Then the villagers made decision to drank rian water instead. The Maesan government office gave every family a 2,000 litres jar to collect rian water with their copayment. The dental department surveyed the villager's drinking behavior in 3 phases - before, after measurement 1 and 7 years. The result indicated that the tap water drinking was significantly decreased. The result from focus group discussion with the housewifes and the elders was a reason on rain water drinking, for the believe of good health first. The result from in-depth interview with the leaders was they had fromed a clean water management policy.