Debate Over Fluoride in U.S. Drinking Water Intensifies Following New Studies and Court Ruling

Recent scientific reviews and legal decisions challenge long-standing public health practices, fueling discussions about fluoride's benefits and potential risks.

• Fluoride has been added to U.S. drinking water since the mid-20th century to reduce tooth decay, benefiting over 209 million Americans according to the CDC.
• A 2024 federal toxicology report found moderate evidence suggesting high fluoride exposure may lower children's IQ, but its findings have been criticized for methodological flaws.
• The CDC and major health organizations, including the American Dental Association, continue to endorse water fluoridation as safe and effective at recommended levels.
• Recent local and federal legal rulings have prompted calls for stricter fluoride regulations, with some communities reconsidering or halting water fluoridation programs.
• Critics argue that misinformation and politicization, including statements by prominent figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., could exacerbate health disparities, especially for underserved populations with limited dental care access.

3 Articles

People The Guardian Scientific American