A new government report links high fluoride levels in drinking water to lower IQ in children, raising concerns about the long-standing practice of water fluoridation.
At a Glance
- U.S. government report associates fluoride levels twice the recommended limit with lower IQ in children
- First time a federal agency has determined this link with “moderate confidence”
- Report based on analysis of previously published research from multiple countries
- Drinking water with more than 1.5 mg/L of fluoride consistently linked to lower IQs in children
- About 1.9 million Americans are on water systems with naturally occurring fluoride at or above this level
Government Report Raises Concerns About Fluoride and Children’s IQ
The National Toxicology Program, part of the Department of Health and Human Services, has released a report that for the first time links higher levels of fluoride in drinking water to lower IQ scores in children. This finding comes after years of debate surrounding the practice of water fluoridation, which has been touted as a major public health achievement for its role in reducing cavities and strengthening teeth.
The report’s conclusions are based on an analysis of previously published research from Canada, China, India, Iran, Pakistan, and Mexico. It found that drinking water containing more than 1.5 milligrams of fluoride per liter is consistently associated with lower IQs in children. This level is more than twice the current recommended fluoridation level of 0.7 mg/L, which was lowered from 1.2 mg/L in 2015.
A U.S. government report concluded that fluoride in drinking water at twice the recommended limit is linked with lower IQ in children. About 1.9 million people in the U.S. have water with naturally occurring fluoride levels of 1.5 milligrams or higher. https://t.co/AFtpsvl0zg
— NBC4 Washington (@nbcwashington) August 22, 2024
Implications for Public Health and Policy
While the report did not quantify the exact IQ points lost, it suggested a range of 2 to 5 points lower in children with higher fluoride exposure. This finding has significant implications for public health policy, especially considering that about 0.6% of the U.S. population, or 1.9 million people, are on water systems with naturally occurring fluoride levels of 1.5 milligrams or higher.
The American Dental Association, which supports water fluoridation, is reviewing the report. Meanwhile, the Environmental Protection Agency currently limits water systems to a maximum of 4 milligrams of fluoride per liter to prevent skeletal fluorosis, a condition that causes pain and damage to bones and joints.
Historical Context and Future Considerations
Fluoride naturally exists in water and soil, and its addition to drinking water began in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1945. Federal officials endorsed water fluoridation in 1950 to prevent tooth decay. However, studies have increasingly suggested a link between higher fluoride levels and brain development issues.
“Fluoride seems to fit in with lead, mercury, and other poisons that cause chemical brain drain,” Grandjean says. “The effect of each toxicant may seem small, but the combined damage on a population scale can be serious, especially because the brain power of the next generation is crucial to all of us.”
The report’s findings may prompt policy discussions about requiring fluoride content on beverage labels and advising pregnant women to lower their fluoride intake from water and certain teas. However, it’s important to note that the report did not conclude on the risks of lower levels of fluoride or the effects on adults, indicating more study is needed.
As we continue to evaluate the benefits and potential risks of water fluoridation, it’s crucial to balance the proven dental health benefits with emerging concerns about cognitive development. Future research and policy decisions will need to carefully consider this delicate balance to ensure the best outcomes for public health.
