- 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 recognized as a major public health accomplishment. The presence of 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. The report is inconclusive and suggests that more research is needed.[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]
