US Govt. Study Links High Fluoride Consumption to Lower Childhood IQ

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Facts

  • A recent report from the US government has found, 'with moderate confidence,' a link between children consuming higher-than-recommended levels of fluoride and lower intelligence quotient (IQ). [1]
  • The addition of low levels of fluoride to drinking water has long been considered by many to be a public health accomplishment, as fluoride helps to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.[2]
  • The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended a safe fluoride level of 1.5 mg/L in drinking water, which is higher than the federal health officials' recommended fluoridation level of 0.7 mg per liter of water.[3]
  • The National Toxicology Program, part of the Department of Health and Human Services, published a report analyzing previous non-US studies. The report links increased fluoride levels from all sources, not just drinking water, to potential neurological risks in children.[4]
  • The report did not specifically name the IQ loss, although some other studies found a 2 to 5-point drop.[5]
  • According to the research, 0.6% of Americans —1.9 million people — use water with naturally occurring fluoride levels of 1.5 milligrams or higher. The 324-page paper said additional research is required on the consequences of reduced fluoride levels.[6]

Sources: [1]Guardian, [2]New York Post, [3]Newsweek, [4]USA Today, [5]The Economic Times and [6]ABC News.

Narratives

  • Narrative A, as provided by The Hill. Several international studies on pregnant women, infants, and children exposed to fluoride levels over 1.5 mg per liter of drinking water revealed lower IQs. While additional research may be needed to better understand the potential risks linked to low levels of fluoride exposure, some caution and concern are warranted around current regulation surrounding the fluoridation of water.
  • Narrative B, as provided by University of Utah Health. The US has accumulated 50 years of data demonstrating the positive effects of fluoride. Often, foreign research papers exhibit significant bias, or use inadequate sample sizes. The locations are also different, and the results don't necessarily extend to the American context. There are numerous safeguards in US water systems to prevent excessive quantities of fluoride. Concern is unwarranted.