Enhanced fluoride in groundwater in Eastern Anatolia: Effects, origin and possibilities for remediation

Abstract

In the spring of 2002 and summer of 2003 two research surveys were carried out in eastern Anatolia. The hydrogeological/hydrochemical investigations undertaken in the spring of 2002 revealed a dramatic situation of the water supply in several villages in the Dogubeyazit area, manifesting fluoride concentrations largely above the 1 ppm WHO limit of fluoride concentration in drinking water. The severity of the resulting health problems was confirmed by a dental and general health survey in three villages where the available water supply contained 6-8 ppm of fluoride. Consequently, this hydrogeological study will attempt to contribute to the alleviation of this problem by the following: (i) to survey the existing situation with regards to the current use of groundwater provided by the existing springs, and boreholes, (ii) to propose a new distribution network of groundwater resources with low fluoride concentration in order to lower its intake thus improving health and quality of life of the affected population.