Article Summary –
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. plans to halt the fluoridation of water by instructing the CDC to stop recommending it, while also forming a task force to reassess fluoride use in drinking water, and the EPA is reviewing potential health risks associated with fluoride. Although fluoride has been credited with significantly reducing tooth decay, concerns have been raised over excessive fluoride intake potentially impacting health, including dental fluorosis and possible links to lower IQs in children, prompting some communities to stop fluoridation for cost-saving reasons. Despite the CDC’s oral health division being eliminated and budget cuts affecting related programs, the impact of reduced funding for fluoridation efforts is expected to be minimal for most communities, although smaller or rural areas might experience more significant effects.
NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is urging communities to stop water fluoridation and is mobilizing government resources to facilitate this change.
Kennedy announced plans to instruct the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to cease recommending water fluoridation across the nation, while also forming a task force of health experts to review and issue updated advice.
Simultaneously, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is set to review new scientific data on potential health risks associated with fluoride in drinking water, as it regulates the maximum allowable level in public water systems.
The benefits of fluoride
Fluoride is known for strengthening teeth and reducing cavities by replenishing lost minerals, according to the CDC. In 1950, federal officials endorsed water fluoridation to combat tooth decay, setting guidelines in 1962 for fluoride levels in water.
Drinking water is the primary source of fluoride for Americans, reaching nearly two-thirds of the U.S. population, according to CDC data. The American Dental Association credits fluoridation with reducing tooth decay by over 25% in children and adults.
The potential problems of too much fluoride
The CDC advises 0.7 milligrams of fluoride per liter of water. Studies indicate potential problems with excessive fluoride, such as teeth streaking and links to brain development issues.
A federal report associated water with more than 1.5 milligrams of fluoride per liter with lower IQs in children, based on international studies. A federal judge recently ordered the EPA to regulate fluoride more strictly, citing potential risks.
Kennedy has railed against fluoride
Kennedy, a former environmental lawyer, describes fluoride as a “dangerous neurotoxin” linked to health issues like arthritis and thyroid disease. Some studies suggest these links, particularly at high fluoride levels, though evidence quality is debated.
How fluoride recommendations can be changed
While CDC recommendations are influential, they aren’t mandatory. State and local governments decide on water fluoridation within EPA limits of 4 milligrams per liter. Kennedy can only advise the CDC to change its recommendations.
Kennedy plans to form a task force on fluoride while ordering the CDC to halt its recommendations. HHS has not clarified the task force’s role.
Some places are already pulling back on fluoridation
Utah recently became the first state to ban fluoride in drinking water, and other states are also reconsidering. An AP analysis shows many communities have stopped fluoridation in recent years, often for cost savings.
During the pandemic, Mississippi allowed temporary cessation of fluoridation, and many systems haven’t resumed due to supply chain disruptions.
CDC funding for fluoride is typically a small factor
Since 2003, the CDC has funded state oral health programs through cooperative agreements. This funding aids data collection and technical assistance for water fluoridation but not chemical purchase.
CDC oral health funding is directed to several states, with South Carolina and Iowa using funds to support community fluoridation. However, recent government staffing cuts have eliminated the CDC’s Division of Oral Health, impacting funding allocations.
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