The Time Has Come to End Fluoridation Completely
Feb 11 2011
Fluoride Action Network In January 2011, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recommended reducing the levels of fluoride added to drinking water based on national survey data showing that 41% of American adolescents now have dental fluorosis (a visible sign of fluoride toxicity). The HHS has proposed reducing the level of fluoride added to water from 0.7 to 1.2 parts per million (ppm) to 0.7 ppm, and is now soliciting public comment. (Comments are due by February 14).
While HHS's decision is a baby step in the right direction, it is not good enough. Even at the new recommended level, millions of infants will continue to be regularly over-exposed to fluoride, millions of American children will continue to develop dental fluorosis, and millions of Americans -- children and adults alike -- will remain at risk to the health effects caused by fluoride.
The Fluoride Action Network (FAN) is calling on HHS to follow the path of western Europe and end water fluoridation completely. Of particular concern is a growing body of research indicating fluoride's ability to damage the developing brain, including 24 studies associating fluoride exposure with reduced IQ in children, 6 studies linking fluoride to other neurotoxic effects in children, and over 100 animal studies reporting that fluoride directly damages the brain. For updated information on the health haards of fluoridating public water supplies, contct the Fluoride Action Network.