Is Utah on the Brink of Becoming the First State to Ban Fluoride in Public Water? Discover the Controversy!

Utah may become the first state in the U.S. to ban fluoride in drinking water. Recently, the Utah State Senate approved a bill that would stop adding fluoride to public water supplies. If the governor signs it, the law will take effect on May 7. However, Governor Spencer Cox has not shared his position on this issue.

This decision follows the recent appointment of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. as health secretary. He previously stated that the Trump administration plans to advise removing fluoride from U.S. water systems.

Currently, about 44 percent of Utah residents using public drinking water receive fluoridated water. Fluoride has been added to drinking water since the early 20th century to prevent cavities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recognized this practice as one of the significant public health achievements of the last century.

Dr. F. Perry Wilson, a physician from Yale School of Medicine, states that the evidence shows fluoride reduces cavities and tooth decay. However, some critics still raise concerns about its safety.

Opponents of fluoridation, including Kennedy and Utah State Representative Stephanie Gricius, point to possible health risks. They argue that fluoride could harm the brains of fetuses and young children. A recent study from the National Institutes of Health reviewed 74 studies and suggested high fluoride exposure during childhood might be linked to lower IQ scores.

It’s important to note that the fluoride levels mentioned in the study were much higher than those found in community water supplies. Dr. Wilson explains that the high levels linked to lower IQ scores usually come from natural contamination, not from water fluoridation.

The debate over fluoride in drinking water continues, with strong opinions on both sides. As Utah moves closer to a potential ban, the implications for public health and dental care are significant and worthy of discussion.

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Fluorides,Water,State Legislatures,Law and Legislation,Kennedy, Robert F Jr