A Harvard University review of studies linking fluoride to adverse effects on children’s brain development is spurring a growing movement to end water fluoridation in the U.S.

The review included 27 epidemiological studies with high and reference exposures to fluoride and corresponding IQ scores or other measures of cognitive function.

The researchers determined that children in high fluoride areas had significantly lower IQs than those who lived in low fluoride areas.

Explaining the risk to children, the review stated: "Fluoride readily crosses the placenta. Fluoride exposure to the developing brain, which is much more susceptible to injury caused by toxicants than is the mature brain, may possibly lead to damage of a permanent nature."

Fluoride Concerns

Other studies have linked fluoride to many health concerns including fluorosis, bone cancer, and diminished bone quality that can lead to fractures. Fluoride also affects normal endocrine function which can contribute to hypothyroidism.

In the U.S., most public water systems add fluoride (fluosilicic acid) to water supplies at approximately 1 part per million for the purpose of reducing tooth decay. However, most of Europe and many other countries do not add fluoride to their water systems.

Opponents of water fluoridation say that current research does not support its intended purpose of preventing tooth decay.

In New York State a coalition opposed to fluoridation point to the Harvard study as another reason to pass pending legislation in their state that would stop water fluoridation. "It's senseless to keep subjecting our children to this ongoing fluoridation experiment...." says attorney Paul Beeber, coalition president. "Even if fluoridation reduced cavities, is tooth health more important than brain health? he added.

For more info on hidden toxins in your home, see The Real Cost of Beauty: Dangerous Toxins Lurking Your Cosmetics.

Sources:

PR Newswire

LiveStrong

Environmental

Health Perspectives