Faucet Water (File) Florida State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo issued new guidance Friday advising against community water fluoridation, c
Florida State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo issued new guidance Friday advising against community water fluoridation, citing potential neuropsychiatric risks associated with fluoride exposure, particularly for pregnant women and children.
Fluoride, a naturally occurring compound found in water, soil, plants, and food, has long been used to prevent tooth decay through community water fluoridation.
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This practice involves adjusting fluoride levels in public water systems to strengthen teeth.
However, many municipalities in the U.S. and several European countries, including Austria, France, and Germany, have phased out water fluoridation.
“It is clear more research is necessary to address safety and efficacy concerns regarding community water fluoridation,” said State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo. “The previously considered benefit of community water fluoridation does not outweigh the current known risks, especially for special populations like pregnant women and children.”
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The Florida Department of Health outlined several risks associated with systemic fluoride exposure, including:
- Neuropsychiatric effects in children: Reduced IQ, cognitive impairment, and increased risk of ADHD.
- Prenatal exposure concerns: Neurobehavioral issues in children born to mothers exposed to fluoride during pregnancy.
- Accumulation in the pineal gland: Linked to disrupted sleep cycles.
- Skeletal fluorosis: A condition that may increase the risk of bone fractures.
- Potential early puberty in girls: Risk of premature menarche.
- Thyroid suppression: Fluoride’s potential interference with iodine absorption.
Given these risks, the Florida Surgeon General has recommended against community water fluoridation, urging municipalities to reconsider their practices.
As of 2023, over 70% of Floridians using community water systems receive fluoridated water.
Ladapo’s guidance marks a significant shift in Florida’s approach to public water fluoridation, reflecting growing concerns about the long-term health implications of systemic fluoride exposure.
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