A U.S. government report expected to stir debate concluded that fluoride in drinking water at twice the recommended limit is linked with lower IQ in children.

The report, based on an analysis of previously published research, marks the first time a federal agency has determined — “with moderate confidence” — that there is a link between higher levels of fluoride exposure and lower IQ in kids. While the report was not designed to evaluate the health effects of fluoride in drinking water alone, it is a striking acknowledgment of a potential neurological risk from high levels of fluoride.

Fluoride and Brain Development

Fluoride strengthens teeth and reduces cavities by replacing minerals lost during normal wear and tear, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The addition of low levels of fluoride to drinking water has long been considered one of the greatest public health achievements of the last century.

However, more and more studies have increasingly pointed to a different problem, suggesting a link between higher levels of fluoride and brain development. Researchers wondered about the impact on developing fetuses and very young children who might ingest water with baby formula. Studies in animals showed fluoride could impact neurochemistry cell function in brain regions responsible for learning, memory, executive function and behaviour.

History of Fluoride Research

In 2006, the National Research Council, a private nonprofit organization in Washington, D.C., said limited evidence from China pointed to neurological effects in people exposed to high levels of fluoride. It called for more research into the effect of fluoride on intelligence.

After more research continued to raise questions, the National Toxicology Program in 2016 started working on a review of the available studies that could provide guidance on whether new fluoride-limiting measures were needed.

There were earlier drafts but the final document has repeatedly been held up. At one point, a committee of experts said available research did not support an earlier draft's conclusions.

The New Report: A Summary of Studies

The long-awaited report released Wednesday comes from the National Toxicology Program, part of the Department of Health and Human Services. It summarizes a review of studies, conducted in Canada, China, India, Iran, Pakistan, and Mexico, that concludes that drinking water containing more than 1.5 milligrams of fluoride per liter is consistently associated with lower IQs in kids.

The report did not try to quantify exactly how many IQ points might be lost at different levels of fluoride exposure. But some of the studies reviewed in the report suggested IQ was 2 to 5 points lower in children who'd had higher exposures.

Since 2015, federal health officials have recommended a fluoridation level of 0.7 milligrams per litre of water, and for five decades before the recommended upper range was 1.2. The World Health Organization has set a safe limit for fluoride in drinking water of 1.5.

The report said that about 0.6% of the U.S. population — about 1.9 million people — are on water systems with naturally occurring fluoride levels of 1.5 milligrams or higher.

“The findings from this report raise the questions about how these people can be protected and what makes the most sense,” Malin said.

Concerns and Further Research

The 324-page report did not reach a conclusion about the risks of lower levels of fluoride, saying more study is needed. It also did not answer what high levels of fluoride might do to adults.

The American Dental Association, which champions water fluoridation, had been critical of earlier versions of the new analysis and Malin’s research. Asked for comment, a spokeswoman late Wednesday afternoon emailed that the organization’s experts were still reviewing the report.

“I think this (report) is crucial in our understanding” of this risk, said Ashley Malin, a University of Florida researcher who has studied the effect of higher fluoride levels in pregnant women on their children. She called it the most rigorously conducted report of its kind.

Public Health Implications and Potential Actions

Malin said it makes sense for pregnant women to lower their fluoride intake, not only from water but also from certain types of tea. It might also make sense to have policy discussions about whether to require fluoride-content on beverage labels, she said.

The report’s findings have raised concerns and prompted calls for further research into the potential effects of fluoride on brain development, particularly in children. It is important to note that the report did not establish a direct causal relationship between high fluoride levels and lower IQ. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and explore the mechanisms involved.

A Debate on Fluoridation

Fluoride is a mineral that exists naturally in water and soil. About 80 years ago, scientists discovered that people whose supplies naturally had more fluoride also had fewer cavities, triggering a push to get more Americans to use fluoride for better dental health.

In 1945, Grand Rapids, Michigan became the first U.S. city to start adding fluoride to tap water. In 1950, federal officials endorsed water fluoridation to prevent tooth decay, and continued to promote it even after fluoride toothpaste brands hit the market several years later. Though fluoride can come from a number of sources, drinking water is the main source for Americans, researchers say.

Officials lowered their recommendation for drinking water fluoride levels in 2015 to address a tooth condition called fluorosis, which can cause splotches on teeth and was becoming more common in U.S. kids.

Separately, the Environmental Protection Agency has maintained a longstanding requirement that water systems cannot have more than 4 milligrams of fluoride per litre. That standard is designed to prevent skeletal fluorosis, a potentially crippling disorder which causes weaker bones, stiffness and pain.

The new report has reignited the debate on the benefits and risks of fluoride in drinking water. While the report focuses on the potential neurological effects of high fluoride levels, it is important to consider the broader context of fluoride's role in public health, including its benefits for dental health.

Moving Forward: Balancing Benefits and Risks

The report serves as a reminder of the importance of ongoing research and monitoring to ensure the safety and effectiveness of public health interventions. As we learn more about the potential risks and benefits of fluoride, it is crucial to have open and informed discussions about how to balance these factors to protect public health.

While the debate continues, this report highlights the need for a comprehensive understanding of fluoride's effects on human health. Further research is necessary to provide a more definitive answer on the relationship between fluoride exposure, brain development, and overall well-being.

This report has the potential to influence public policy and individual decisions regarding fluoride intake. It is essential to consider the findings of this report in conjunction with other research, and to make informed decisions based on the best available scientific evidence.

A Call to Action: What We Can Do

This report serves as a call to action for individuals, communities, and policymakers. Here are some steps we can take:

• Stay Informed: Stay updated on the latest research and recommendations regarding fluoride intake.
• Advocate for Transparency: Support efforts to increase transparency and accessibility of information about fluoride content in food and water.
• Promote Informed Choices: Encourage individuals to make informed choices about fluoride consumption based on their own needs and health considerations.
• Support Research: Advocate for continued research to investigate the potential effects of fluoride on brain development and overall health.

By engaging in open and informed dialogue, promoting evidence-based decision-making, and supporting continued research, we can work towards a healthier and more informed future.