Fluoride: What It Is and Why RFK Jr. Wants It Removed from Water

Fluoride is a mineral commonly added to drinking water to help prevent tooth decay. However, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has voiced strong opposition to its presence in public water supplies. He argues that fluoride may pose health risks, citing concerns over potential toxicity and environmental impacts. This stance has sparked debate on the benefits versus the potential harm of fluoridation, with RFK Jr. calling for its removal to protect public health.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., selected by President-elect Donald Trump to head the Department of Health and Human Services, has stated that Trump will push to end fluoride additions to public water supplies. While Trump has not officially confirmed this stance, he has suggested it may be a possibility. Here’s what you need to know about fluoride in drinking water and the latest developments on this issue.

What is Fluoride and Its Benefits?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in water, soil, and air that helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel, making it more resistant to the acids produced by bacteria. It can also reverse early stages of tooth decay. Prior to the introduction of community water fluoridation, tooth decay was widespread in the U.S. However, after fluoride was added to public water systems, tooth decay rates decreased in both children and adults.

When Did Water Fluoridation Start?
In the early 20th century, researchers discovered that people in areas with naturally high fluoride levels had fewer dental issues. Grand Rapids, Michigan, became the first U.S. city to fluoridate its water supply in 1945. This public health initiative showed a 60% reduction in tooth decay among children. By the 1950s, the effectiveness of water fluoridation was recognized, leading to its widespread adoption in U.S. communities and in dental products like toothpaste.

How Widespread is Fluoridation in the U.S.?
As of 2022, 63% of Americans receive fluoride through their community water supplies. Fluoridation costs vary, with large communities spending about 50 cents per person annually, while smaller communities may spend up to $3 per person. Globally, most countries do not fluoridate their water, though some add fluoride to table salt.

Are Fluoride Levels Regulated?
The U.S. Public Health Service recommends fluoride levels in drinking water should not exceed 0.7 mg/L to avoid health risks such as bone fractures and thyroid disease. The Environmental Protection Agency enforces a limit of 4.0 mg/L. Recently, a California judge called for stricter regulations on fluoride levels.

What Companies Produce Fluoride?
Fluorosilicic acid is the most commonly used fluoride compound in public water systems. Companies like J.R. Simplot and Nutrien’s PCS Phosphate Company manufacture fluorosilicic acid. In 2019, the U.S. produced approximately 29 million kilograms of the compound.

What Did Kennedy Say?
Kennedy, an environmental advocate, has voiced opposition to water fluoridation. He claimed that once Trump assumes office, his administration will recommend the removal of fluoride from U.S. water supplies, citing potential health risks such as cancer.

What Do Public Health Experts Say?
The CDC has called water fluoridation one of the greatest public health achievements of the 20th century, citing its significant role in reducing tooth decay across all socioeconomic groups. The American Dental Association supports water fluoridation as a crucial measure to prevent tooth decay. However, some experts, like Florida's Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo, argue that recent studies suggest fluoride could pose risks to children’s brain health.

What Do Recent Studies Show About Fluoride Benefits?
A review published by the Cochrane Database in October questioned the effectiveness of water fluoridation in wealthy countries. It found that, with widespread fluoride use in toothpaste since 1975, community water fluoridation may now provide only modest benefits in reducing tooth decay. The review also indicated insufficient evidence to determine the effects of discontinuing fluoridation on health disparities.

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Source: Reuters‍