FAN in the News:
2001-2006
2011-2012

2010:

Connett Raising Fluoride Awareness – Daily Courier Observer (New York) – December 18, 2010

The professor emeritus of chemistry at St. Lawrence University recently published a book, “The Case against Fluoride,” and has spent most of this fall traveling around the globe promoting it… Mr. Connett is the head of the Fluoride Action Network, which aims to raise awareness about the risks associated with the chemical…

Facing Threat Of Suit, EPA Weighs Broad Effort To Address Fluoride’s Risks – Inside EPA’s Risk Policy Report – December 7, 2010

… Lawyers for the Fluoride Action Network, Beyond Pesticides, and Environmental Working Group said in a Nov. 15 letter that they will sue if EPA does not act within 30 days on their years-long request to stay a rule setting safety tolerances for residues of two fluorinated pesticides, sulfuryl fluoride and fluoride anion, on food. “Based on this unfortunate history, my clients’ patience has come to an end . . . EPA’s failure to make . . . a decision will result in our seeking relief in federal court,” the letter says. The groups’ threat comes after the agency missed its Nov. 4 deadline to respond to the groups’ long-standing request to stay Bush-era rules that set tolerances for the two fluorinated pesticides, sulfuryl fluoride and fluoride anion…

Fluoridation Under the Microscope – The Austin Chronicle (Texas) – November 12, 2010

Local anti-fluoridation activists brought in heavy scientific reinforcements last week, with several Austin appearances by Paul Connett, professor emeritus of environmental chemistry at St. Lawrence University, director of the Fluoride Action Network, and co-author of the recently released The Case Against Fluoride…

Portsmouth: A fight against fluoride in city water – SeacoastOnline.com (New Hampshire) – November 7, 2010

… Even Time magazine has issued a warning about the use of fluoride and included it as one of the “Top Ten Common Household Toxins.” The publication described fluoride as both “neurotoxic and potentially tumorigenic if swallowed.” According to information provided by the Fluoride Action Network, fluoride can jeopardize health, even at low levels, and poses risks to the thyroid gland, diabetics, kidney patients, high water drinkers and can severely damage children’s teeth…

City of Austin water quality questioned by visiting environmental scientist – ImpactNews.com (Texas) – November 4, 2010

Dr. Paul Connett, a professor of environmental chemistry at St. Lawrence University in New York and director of the Fluoride Action Network—America’s largest organization opposing water fluoridation—kicked off his six-day Austin tour at the Nov. 4 Austin City Council meeting where he pressed the council to consider re-evaluation of the city’s water fluoridation practices…

Author Brings the ‘Case Against Fluoride’ to Malibu’s Water Quality Activists – Malibu Surfside News (California) – October 28, 2010

… Paul Connett, director of the Fluoride Action Network and the lead author of “The Case Against Fluoride: How Hazardous Waste Ended Up in Our Drinking Water and the Bad Science and Powerful Politics That Keep It There,” recently visited Malibu during the Los Angeles leg of his book tour to speak about the issue. According to Connett, it’s never too late to start fighting back, and the first step is for citizens to become educated about fluoridation…

More join in court fight over PA fluoride – KONP radio (Port Angeles, Washington) – October 19, 2010

Seven groups have now joined an effort to overturn a state Supreme Court ruling dealing with fluoride in the Port Angeles water… The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology, Fluoride Action Network, Oregon Citizens for Safe Drinking Water, Washington Action for Safe Water, Whidbey Environmental Action Network, Protect the Peninsula’s Future, and Clallam County Citizens for Safe Drinking Water signed on to the petition for reconsideration.

Why water shouldn’t be fluoridated – The Globe and Mail (Toronto, Canada) – October 14, 2010;.

… Paul Connett, a U.S. academic and public-health advocate, is the leading international spokesman for the movement to stop fluoridation… Health Canada is a strong promoter of fluoridation, as are most dental associations, which say it’s a safe, low-cost way to prevent tooth decay, particularly among cavity-prone children. But Dr. Connett, executive director of the Fluoride Action Network and professor emeritus of chemistry at St. Lawrence University in New York, disagrees. For his reasons, read on…

Retired SLU chemistry professor co-authors ‘Case Against Fluoride’ book – NorthCountryNow (Potsdam, NY) – October 11, 2010

… Connett was a member of the St. Lawrence faculty for 23 years, retiring and being named to emeritus status in 2006. Director of the Fluoride Action Network, and executive director of its parent body, the American Environmental Health Studies Project, Connett has spoken and given more than 2,000 presentations in 49 states and 52 countries on the issue of waste management. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Cambridge and a Ph.D. in chemistry from Dartmouth College…

Green Insider: Fluorinating Atlanta’s Tap Water – Atlanta INtown (Georgia) – October 1, 2010

… many national organizations, like the Fluoride Action Network (www.fluoridealert.org) are working to heighten public awareness of the toxicity of fluoride and its potential negative health effects. Among these are kidney and thyroid problems and, more frequently occurring, dental fluorosis, which leaves teeth brown, stained or even indented when over exposed to fluoride… Avoiding tap water in its purest form is the easiest way to begin taking a stand against fluoride, but it’s important to familiarize yourself with FAN and learn about where else fluoride can be found in your everyday life.

Fluoridation row in Fiji splits health officials and activists over oral health – Pacific Scoop – September 30, 2010

Last month, the Ministry of Health revealed it is working with the Water Authority of Fiji to fluoridate water supplies across the country. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) fluoride is beneficial for oral health when consumed in limited concentrations. But international lobby group Fluoride Action Network says the mineral is toxic and campaigns for non-fluoridated water… International lobby group Fluoride Action Network does not have a Fijian chapter but links to news items about the measures on their website reveal the group is monitoring the situation…

Anti-fluoride expert speaks Oct. 6 – InsideHalton.com (Oakville, Ontario, Canada) – September 29, 2010

An environmental expert will be in Oakville to present his case against the use of fluoride in tap water on Wednesday, Oct. 6… Connett is the director of the Fluoride Action Network and the executive director of its parent body, the American Environmental Health Studies Project…

Fluoridation is based on politics not science says US professor – The Daily Echo (Southampton, England) – September 14, 2010

THE case for fluoride is based on politics not science, a US chemistry professor told campaigners trying to stop health chiefs adding it to the tap water of 200,000 homes. Paul Connett, founder of the Fluoride Action Network, threw his support behind Hampshire Against Fluoridation when he spoke to members on Saturday at Southampton Solent University. He used the event to launch his new book, The Case Against Fluoride: how hazardous waste ended up in our drinking water and the bad science and powerful politics that keep it there..

Fighting talk on fluoride – Daily Echo (UK) – August 26, 2010

A LEADING international critic of water fluoridation is to give a special presentation in Hampshire next month. Professor Paul Connett’s visit comes as campaigners claim there is gathering momentum in their fight against controversial plans to add fluoride to water supplies in and around Southampton… Professor Connett, a founding member of the international Fluoride Action Network, was one of the panel members when the SHA held Question Time-style debates during consultation process…

Is lack of fluoride hurting kids? – The Gainesville Sun (Florida) – August 10, 2010

… Some communities, though, are reluctant to add fluoride to their water systems because of campaigns claiming fluoride is dangerous. The Fluoride Action Network claims that fluoride can lower IQ, create a toxic buildup in the body, discolor teeth and possibly cause bone breaks and a rare form of bone cancer in young males…

Fluoride Divide. A 60-year Debate Revisited in Escambia County – Pensacola Independent News (Florida) – Juy 29, 2010

… “It seems to me that (the government’s) solution is fluoridation but that doesn’t do anything,” says Carol Kopf, a representative of the Fluoride Action Network(FAN). “It has not leveled out tooth decay from the haves and have-nots.” Since 1983 [sic, should be 2000], FAN has been fighting against fluoridation, stating many health risks and lack of research from federal agencies regarding side effects…

EDITORIAL: Fluoride follies – The News Herald (Florida) – July 21, 2010

… The dark specter of communist subterfuge has all but vanished, but the health concerns of fluoridation remain hotly debated. The Fluoride Action Network will give you “50 Reasons to Oppose Fluoridation” that range from the compound no longer being necessary to promote dental health to it being a “cumulative poison” with a host of adverse effects. In response, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Cancer Institute offer numerous arguments with links to studies refuting the anti-fluoride alarmism…

Shawnee researches value of adding flouride to city water – The Shawnee News-Star (Oklahoma) – July 2, 2010

… “I’m not a dentist but I think there is enough natural fluoride that if someone uses toothpaste or mouthwash with fluoride, it should be fine,” Bierd [utility director] said. Bierd could be right, according to the website www.fluoridealert.org , which states, “Fluoride is not an essential nutrient…no disease has ever been linked to a fluoride deficiency. Humans can have perfectly good teeth without fluoride.” The same website argues, “Once fluoride is put in the water it is impossible to control the dose each individual receives,” because individuals vary in water consumption and additional fluoride intake.

Warning: This Daily Habit is Damaging Your Bones, Brain, Kidneys, and Thyroid – Mercola.com – July 1, 2010

“The Fluoride Action Network is an absolutely phenomenal resource for further education, and they’re doing much to pressure the US government for change…”

Fluoridated water may end in Schuylkill County – Republican Herald (Pennsylvania) – February 7, 2010

With Schuylkill Haven Borough Council’s decision last week to stop adding fluoride to its drinking water, municipal water fluoridation may soon be a thing of the past in Schuylkill County… Carol Kopf, Levittown, N.Y., a media officer with the, said the group wants to see an end to the use of fluoride worldwide, and does not believe it prevents tooth decay…

2009:

Unstable Element. Are Austin’s water fluoridation policies dangerous? It depends who you ask. – The Austin Chronicle (Texas) – November 27, 2009

… Fluorosis is one of several worries in the anti-fluoride movement. The Fluoride Action Network work (www.fluoridealert.org), perhaps the largest online opposition clearinghouse, stokes worries about an increased risk of bone cancer, kidney malfunction, impacted thyroid gland and pineal gland function, brain damage, lowered IQ, and more. You can spend hours scouring the FAN website, each of its health claims seemingly supported with scientific findings – just as you can spend days combing through the statements from the CDC, the Texas Department of State Health Services, the American Medical Association, and the Amer i can Dental Association, to cite a few, endorsing water fluoridation and saying such afflictions can’t be caused by the current amounts in our drinking water. In the debate over water fluoridation, each side claims science as an ally, and each yields no quarter…

Chemist addresses adverse health effects of water fluoridation – The Post (Ohio University’s student-run newspaper) – October 15, 2009.

… Paul Connett, Ph.D., executive director of the Fluoride Action Network, said fluoridated water threatens to lower children’s IQs, increase the risk of bone fractures and cause infertility… Ohio Department of Health officials [were invited] to the meeting, but the department declined… stating that its representatives do not participate in debates about the topic, calling the scientific controversy an “illusion.” …

Opinion: Citizens are being misled – Sunraysia Daily (Mildura, Australia) – September 18, 2009

This opinion piece, signed by 19 professionals, was a response to a letter by Dr John Carnie, Chief Health Officer, and others, published Sept 2 in the Sunraysia Daily. Caption under photo: “DR Paul Connett, PhD (pictured) has researched the fluoride issue for 13 years and is currently the executive director of the Fluoride Action Network … Dr Connett appears on the video Professional Perspectives on Fluoridation accessible at www.FluorideAlert.org”

EPCOR lowers fluoride levels – Sherwood Park News (Alberta, Canada) – July 13, 2009

… Health Canada said the bulk of evidence suggests there is no link between fluoride and cancer. The organization also states there is significant concern about the studies on the effect of fluoride on Intelligence Quotient. According to the Fluoride Action Network, a group against the use of fluoride, there have been more than 2,500 medical professionals sign against the use of fluoride. The group cites several studies citing health effects caused by fluoride.

Fluoridation debate not quite settled in 2 towns – Lincoln Journal Star (Nebraska) – July 4, 2009

…The Fluoride Action Network, for example, turns up second in a Google search of the term. The group calls itself an international coalition that seeks to inform citizens, scientists and doctors that fluoride exposure represents a health threat rather than a benefit. The professionally produced Web site says most people don’t know the fluoride injected into water supplies is a by-product of the aluminum and fertilizer industries. It also declares that while fluoride’s effectiveness at reducing cavities is dubious, studies have linked it to a rare bone cancer and lower IQ scores. A fence sitter might be swayed by links to an anti-fluoridation petition signed by 2,500 doctors, scientists and lawyers and a National Research Council report recommending a lowering of what was considered the safe level of fluoride exposure…

Strange Love from the Tap – The Independent Weekly (Louisiana) – June 3, 2009

The keynote speaker was Dr. Paul Connett, a retired chemistry professor from St. Lawrence University in Canton, N.Y., who now heads up the Fluoride Action Network and runs the Web site www.FluorideAlert.org. … From the podium, Connett says local and state dental associations were invited to present the argument for fluoridating Lafayette’s water supply but no one accepted the invitation. He adds that fluoridation has become a “belief system” supported by “junk science” upheld by doctors, dentists and public officials. “They promote fluoridation like parrots,” he says, “and they defend it like chickens.” … Connett takes questions from the audience and one man refers to the phosphate fertilizer industry, where hydrofluorosilicic acid is a waste byproduct and also the primary fluoride chemical for water fluoridation. “Follow the money,” Connett adds. “It’s a lousy way to get rid of hazardous waste.”

To fluoridate or not fluoridate – The Observer-Dispatch (New York) – May 14, 2009

Officials in the Village of Hamilton held an informational meeting to hear the pros and cons of continuing to fluoridate the municipal water supply … Paul Connett, Ph.D., executive director of the Fluoride Action Network and professor emeritus of chemistry at St. Lawrence University, offered the opposing point of view. Connett listed numerous reasons why municipalities should not use fluoride including unsafe levels of consumption, inefficiency as 99.5 percent goes down the drain, unneeded for healthy teeth, discoloration of teeth in some individuals, the presence of warnings discouraging the amount of fluoride use on toothpaste labels and more. You can control the concentration of fluoride in the water but you can’t control the dosage,” he said, adding that the more an individual drinks, the higher the intake…

Fluoridation cost worries council – The Advocate (Louisiana) – April 22, 2009

LAFAYETTE — The City-Parish Council voted Tuesday to urge the Acadiana legislative delegation to seek repeal of a 2008 state law that would require Lafayette and other cities with populations over 5,000 to start water fluoridation programs… Two people spoke against the fluoridation program, including Paul Connett, a retired chemistry professor who heads the Fluoride Action Network…Connett told the council that studies have found ill health effects from fluoridated water.

Fluoride battle needs new venue – The Calgary Sun (Alberta, Canada) – April 7, 2009

… The fuss is over whether the chemical is safe for human consumption. The answer is not nearly as clear-cut as you’d like. Fluoride detractors argue it’s a chemical whose effects are detrimental to our health at worst and inconclusive at best. One group advocating this position is Canton, N.Y.,-based Fluoride Action Network. It boasts a large number of health professionals who support their anti-fluoride position. The indirect health effects of fluoride, they argue, have not been studied throughly enough. They point to the negative effect of ingesting fluoride on the kidney, bones and teeth…

Local dentists firm in fluoride support – The Press Republican (Plattsburgh, NY) – March 4, 2009

City of Plattsburgh officials heard a strong message Tuesday night from people supporting the fluoridation of drinking water… But recent alarms by the Fluoride Action Network have some councilors considering removing it from the water system. Paul Connett, executive director of the Fluoride Action Network in St. Lawrence County, claims fluoride can be harmful in that it could be linked to lower intelligence quotients in children… [Dr. Robert Heins, a dentist for 40 years said] “I have dealt with this person (Connett) in the past, and I have nothing good to say about him and his followers. They are dishonest, and they know their studies are junk science.” Heins said he has been treating patients who use fluoride for decades and has seen the benefits without any harm. “I’ve been treating patients for 40 years. This clown (Connett) has never treated a single patient

Fluoridation Gamble Fails the Test of Time – The Republic Magazine – February 26, 2009

By Paul Connett, PhD, Director, Fluoride Action Network. “… No studies have investigated a possible relationship between fluoridation and the numerous illnesses and impacts discussed above… Even the most basic studies have not been done. For example, no comprehensive survey of fluoride bone levels has been undertaken to see if some people are reaching damaging levels. Nor has there been a monitoring program of fluoride levels in people’s blood and urine. More seriously, studies have not been done on a number of childhood conditions using the severity of dental fluorosis as a biomarker of exposure. All of these failures to do the obvious allow fluoridation promoters to say, “We have been fluoridating the water for over 60 years and we don’t see any health problems”, yet if you don’t look, you don’t find. Where studies have been done, they have been done largely in countries that do not have a fluoridation program to protect, especially India and China, where there are large areas that have high natural levels of fluoride in the water and are endemic for both dental and skeletal fluorosis. For many years, the US has ignored these studies, claiming that they are not relevant here, because people in these countries drink excessive amounts of water because of the hot climates and have a poor diet, which exacerbates fluoride’s toxicity…”

Evidence shows fluoridation danger – The Press Republican (Plattsburgh, New York) – February 6, 2009

Opinion piece in response to editorial (below) by Paul Connett, PhD,Professor Emeritus of Environmental Chemistry, St. Lawrence University, Canton, and director of Fluoride Action Network. “… The key question, of course, is whether there is an adequate margin of safety between the levels which have caused this harm in other countries and the levels experienced by children in this country drinking uncontrolled amounts of fluoridated water. The lowest level estimated at which IQ was lowered in one of these studies was 1.8 ppm (Xiang et al., 2003). Can you find a single toxicologist or pharmacologist who will tell you that offers an adequate margin of safety for all children exposed to fluoridated water at 1 ppm? …”

Debate over fluoride in drinking water is on again – The Press Republican (Plattsburgh, New York) – January 24, 2009

…Paul Connett, executive director of the Fluoride Action Network in St. Lawrence County, has been working to ban the substance for the past 12 years. Connett says fluoride, while it may prevent tooth decay, can be dangerous. There have been 23 studies, many in India and China, he said, that show the use of fluoride could possibly lead to lower intelligence quotients among children. “There is a growing alarm that in order to stop tooth decay, we may be damaging our children’s brains,” Connett said…

New information on sulfuryl fluoride – San Francisco Chronicle (California) – January 23, 2009

… The Fluoride Action Network tried to stop the use of sulfuryl fluoride as a food fumigant. Here’s a quote from its Web site (under the Fluoride Pesticides heading): “Sulfuryl fluoride is the most immediate and important pesticide issue for the FAN Pesticide Project. This acutely toxic fumigant received its first-time approval for use on stored food commodities (raw and processed) in the U.S. in January 2004. This approval allows the highest levels of fluoride residue levels in food in the history of the EPA. FAN, together with Beyond Pesticides, submitted formal objections to EPA on this approval.” …

The fight over fluoride – The Dexter Leader – January 22, 2009

…The issue has also garnered national attention. After the article published in The Dexter Leader on Dec. 25, 2008, members of a group called the Fluoride Action Network contacted the newspaper via e-mail, as well as local officials expressing their displeasure at the fact that the negative side of fluoride had not been presented. Their group, known as FAN for short, both oppose expanded efforts to offer fluoride in municipal drinking water, but push for a number of public information initiatives, including warning residents served by fluoridated systems of alleged health risks and environmental issues…

Cranberry Portage stops fluoridation – The Reminder (Manitoba, Canada) – January 21, 2009

… Other opponents, such as the Fluoride Action Network, imply fluoridation is a factor behind dental fluorosis, a condition in which too much fluoride has been ingested. The Network says fluoride, even at low concentrations, inhibits numerous enzymes and that the various countries that have ended fluoridation have done so for good reason.

There’s something in the water – Baton Rouge Business Report (Louisiana) – January 12, 2009

Paul Connett, Emeritus Professor of Chemistry at St. Lawrence University and possibly the nation’s foremost fluoridation critic, argued at LEAN’s annual conference in October that “fluoridation must be stopped worldwide.” … “It is an absolutely absurd practice,” says Connett, who is a founding member of the Fluoride Action Network. He says organizations such as the American Dental Association have staked their credibility on fluoridation, and are likely worried about legal liability for their longtime support of the practice… “We’re just flying blind, and we’ve been flying blind for 50 years,” Connett says. “Somewhere along the line, protecting this policy has become more important than protecting the public’s health.” …

2008:

Troy discusses fluoridation bill – The Daily Review (Pennsylvania) – December 17, 2008

Borough council once again sunk its teeth into a topic that it has visited in the past: a House bill to fluoridate public water… [council member] Laverty provided a letter from Dr. Paul Connett from “Fluoride Action Network.” It reads: “While dentists in the U.S. continue to treat fluoride as if it only affects one tissue in the body (the teeth), researchers around the world continue to study fluoride’s effects on other areas in the body. Of particular concern is a growing number of studies suggesting that fluoride can interfere with the brain, particularly the developing brain of the fetus, infant, and toddler.”

US towns say no to fluoride plan days before Hampshire consultation ends – Daily Echo (Southampton, England) – December 17, 2008

… But while Hampshire residents still have a chance to tell health chiefs their opinions, across the pond many have just had a more direct say on what goes in their water… While 12 towns voted in favour of adopting fluoridation, electors in 49 others said they do not want it introduced where they live… “Once again, we have seen confirmed that when and where citizens are given free choice on this matter the overwhelming majority of towns reject fluoridation,” said Professor Paul Connett, the head of the international Fluoride Action Network…

Crescent City: Fluoride issue headed for City Council – The Daily Triplicate (California), December 13, 2008

Salisbury is the man behind a new push to remove fluoride from Crescent City’s water supply, and he was instrumental in getting the topic on the agenda for the upcoming City Council meeting Monday… Other anti-fluoride groups, such as the Fluoride Action Network, cite studies that have found high exposure to the mineral can lead to kidney and liver damage in children and even lower IQ….

Russellville: City looking at fluoride-free water – The Times Daily (Alabama) – December 8, 2008

… The Fluoride Action Network, an international coalition of 1,991 dentists, environmentalists, scientists and doctors, seeks to abolish fluoride in the public drinking water supply… Studies they cite suggest when fluoride is ingested, the chemical lowers IQs in children and can cause damage to developing brains and teeth. The studies also state long-term exposure can damage bones and is linked to bladder cancer…

Rowdy final debate on issue of fluoride in Southampton’s water – Daily Echo (Southampton, England), December 4, 2008

… Experts on the four strong panel were equally split. “Fluoride works topically from the outside. It makes as much sense to swallow it to improve teeth as it does to swallow sun lotion to protect your skin,” said Professor Paul Connett, director of the Fluoride Action Network. He also argued there is a lack of evidence to prove fluoridation is safe…

No winners yet in fluoride debate – Daily Echo (Southampton, England), October 21, 2008

Around 150 people turned up for the first of three Question Time-style debates between the opposing sides of the argument surrounding plans to fluoridate two thirds of Southampton’s water supply… Paul Connett, founder of the Fluoride Action Network, and former Southampton PCT board member Dr Stephen Peckham said studies have never been carried out into side effects. “Since fluoridation came in the main focus of the money has gone into studies on the effects on teeth, teeth and teeth,” said Prof Connett. “Teeth aren’t the only tissue in the body.” …

Donora: ‘THE TRUTH WAS CONCEALED’ – Observer Reporter (Pennyslvania), October 19, 2008

… There were fatal levels of fluoride in tissue samples tested on one of the smog victims whose body was exhumed for a pathelogical diagnosis several months after the disaster, said Chris Neurath, research director of the Fluoride Action Network of Canton, N.Y. Those findings “just make the case stronger” for placing blame on the chemical for the problems in Donora, he said. Steel mills added fluorspar to steel production at a time when fluoride was one of the unhealthiest air pollutants in the industry, Bryson wrote in his 2004 book, “The Fluoride Deception.” …

Fluoride expert speaks at Binghamton University – Channel 10 TV – News Now (New York), October 14, 2008

… Dr. Paul Connet [sic: Connett] is the executive director of the Fluoride Action Network. He says that fluoride has its benefits, like when it’s used to strengthen teeth, but he thinks that communities are making a mistake by adding it to their drinking supply. “They don’t know the science. They don’t know that fluoride accumulates in the bones and makes the bones more brittle, that the first symptoms are like arthritis. They don’t know that fluoride lowers thyroid function and we have millions with hypothyroidism in this country. They don’t know that fluoride actually lowers IQ level in children,” Connet [sic] said…

Fluoride divide – North Platte Telegraph (Nebraska), October 12, 2008

… Connett, a retired professor who specialized in environmental chemistry and toxicology, is the executive director of the Fluoride Action Network – a national organization that seeks to educate people about the risks of fluoride…He noted there are 23 published studies showing that fluoride decreases a child’s IQ. He said these studies were done in countries like India, China, Mexico and Iran, where the children get higher levels of fluoridated water. Yet he feels the basic question for consideration is whether there is an adequate margin of safety, and whether it is possible to guarantee the safety of everyone, including young children and the elderly…

Fluoride consultation document, branded as “propaganda” – Daily Echo (Southampton, England), October 1, 2008

A LEADING anti-fluoridation campaigner has criticised Southampton’s consultation document, calling it “propaganda”. Dr Paul Connett, the director of Fluoride Action Network and a retired professor of chemistry at St Lawrence University in New York State, claims the booklet produced by South Central Strategic Health Authority (SHA) to tell the public about fluoridation is biased in favour of fluoridation. Dr Connett, who has flown over to Southampton from his New York home to join in the Great Fluoride Debate, said: “It is propaganda. People in Southampton are being grossly misled…

Fluoridation? World expert says ‘It’s an American crackpot idea from the ’50s’ – Daily Echo (Southampton, England), September 22, 2008:

… Dr Connett, director of Fluoride Action Network and a retired professor of chemistry at St Lawrence University in New York State, has spoken at conferences worldwide on fluoride since he began researching its health impact 12 years ago… “No British authorities are studying the link between fluoride and lower IQ levels, and they are ignoring all the studies from the other countries.” Dr Connett called for an open debate: “Now is the time to challenge the strategic health authority to demonstrate objectivity by having a balanced debate. I am prepared to do it.”

Fluoride lowers IQ, studies show – Rachel’s Precaution Reporter # 156, August 20, 2008:

… ‘There have now been over 40 animal studies which show that fluoride can damage the brain, and no less than 18 studies which show that fluoride lowers IQ in children, and only 2 that don’t,’ says Paul Connett, PhD, Executive Director, Fluoride Action Network (FAN) … Michael Connett, FAN’s Project Director co-authored a poster presentation at the International Association of Dental Research entitled, ‘Fluoride and its effect on human intelligence.’ which identified 20 ecological studies that purport an association between high fluoride exposure and decreased human intelligence…

Water Fluoridation Is an Issue – Randolph Herald (Vermont), August 14, 2008:

… Selectman Joe Voci, according to the minutes, questioned whether there would be any follow-up to an earlier public information meeting held Feb. 26. That meeting included three Randolph health practitioners who favored continued fluoridation as an effective way to combat tooth decay. A noted anti-fluoridation speaker, Dr. Connett, then made a video-aided presentation opposed to the fluoridation of public water supplies, referring to research and positions of the organization FluorideAlert [Fluoride Action Network] and offering case studies from Europe, Asia, and Australia….

Dental experts defend fluoride in water; activists claim link to brain damage – The Canadian Press, August 8, 2008: (The same article was aired on WSBT South Bend in Indiana)

… Dr. Paul Connett, director of the Fluoride Action Network, said the fluoridation debate “has been controlled for far too long by the dental lobby” in many countries, including Canada. “They’re preoccupied by one tissue, the teeth, whereas the opponents of fluoridation, like myself, see the body slightly differently,” he said…

 Experts disagree on fluoride in drinking water – CTV (Canadian Television), August 7, 2008:

… Members of the Fluoride Action Network and Citizens for a Safe Environment said they have found studies from China and other countries that prove fluoride exposure may inhibit the development of a child’s brain. An international group of scientists who study fluoride in drinking water appeared with members of the two advocacy groups at a Queen’s Park press conference. “Does fluoride cause problems? Absolutely,” Paul Connet [sic], director of the Fluoride Action Network, told reporters. “Fluoride lowers thyroid function, fluoride damages the bone and fluoride lowers IQ. All of these have been demonstrated in India and China.” …

Fluoride on its way – The Daily Advertiser (Lafayette, Louisiana), July 19, 2008:

…Not everyone agrees that fluoridated drinking water is a good thing. The Fluoride Action Network opposes the practice while the Environmental Working Group wants additional research. They argue that too much fluoridation is harmful. They cite reports that suggest fluoridated water can lead to the ingestion of too much fluoride, which may be linked to thyroid, dental and bone problems, for starters…

US city mirrors Hampshire’s fluoride debate – Daily Echo (Southampton, England), June 27, 2008:

Fluoride’s glory may be cresting… Members of Hampshire Against Fluoridation and fluoride expert Dr Paul Connett, director of America’s Fluoride Action Network, have spoken out against the proposals. Opponents have warned of health risks such as brittle bones and dental fluorosis. Dr Connett said: “You are allowing the health authorities to do to the whole community what an individual doctor cannot do to anyone. A doctor can’t force medication on a patient.” …

Fluoride’s glory may be cresting – Chicago Tribune, June 23, 2008:

… And the re-examination by Grand Rapids, the mother of fluoride, has provided an unanticipated boost for opponents. “If Grand Rapids falls, that could be the beginning of the end of fluoride,” said Paul Connett, a retired chemistry professor and director of the Fluoride Action Network, which advocates against fluoridation…

Professionals Ask Governor Jindal to Veto Unfair Fluoridation Bill – Reuters, June 21, 2008:

… Paul Connett, PhD, Director, Fluoride Action Network asks, “If fluoridation is a source of pride to the dental lobby why didn’t they present their case openly and allow the legislators to hear experts from both sides? The public should be fully informed about measures that could adversely affect their health. This shouldn’t be done by stealth.” …

Fluoride experts give their views – Daily Echo (Southampton, England), June 15, 2008:

They are two men from the same profession who have advised governments on dental policy, but with wildly differing views on adding fluoride to our water. Here they give their reasons for and against. Dr Paul Connett is the director of Fluoride Action Network and a retired professor of chemistry at St Lawrence University in New York State. He has travelled and spoken at conferences worldwide on fluoride since he began researching it 12 years ago. He advised America’s National Research Council during its investigation into fluoridated water. He was born in Sussex and studied at Cambridge University. He moved to the United States in 1966….

Louisiana May Mandate Fluoridation Despite Evidence of Harm – Reuters, June 2, 2008:

… “Sadly, fluoridation proponents orchestrated and paid for a slick but inaccurate PR campaign. As a result legislators have only heard one side of the story,” says Paul Connett, PhD, Executive Director, Fluoride Action Network. Connett urges Louisianan’s to contact their House representatives to stop the money-wasting fluoridation mandate …

House panel OKs fluoride bill – The Advocate (Louisiana), May 29, 2008:

… Fluoride Action Network , a nonprofit organization based in Canton, N.Y., argues in its literature that fluoride is most effective when used topically, as in toothpaste, and that there is evidence that shows the systemic intake of fluoride has been linked to risk of bone fractures, decreased thyroid function, lowered intelligence, arthritic-like conditions, and it can pit the enamel on teeth…

Bill means Chadron will revisit fluoride issue – The Chadron Record (Nebraska), May 1, 2008:

… Not everyone agrees, however, that fluoridation of community water supplies is the answer. Dr. Arvid Carlsson of Sweden the 2000 Nobel Prize winner in physiology or medicine, objects to the practice, saying that everyone reacts differently to medication and what is beneficial for one person may be harmful for another. The Fluoride Action Network cites Carlsson as calling community fluoridation “obsolete,” saying he disagrees with the CDC that it is one of the greatest public health achievements. Opponents point out that each person drinks a different amount of water, meaning dosage cannot be controlled, and could become toxic for someone who drinks more water….

Fluoridation’s dirty little secret – Columbia City Paper (South Carolina) – April 25, 2008:

DHEC Oral Health Director Christine Veschusio told me that in deciding to endorse fluoridation, “We base our decision on organizations such as the CDC.” Paul Connett, director of Fluoride Action Network, describes the relationship between the CDC and state health departments more bluntly: “Policy is determined from the top [by the U.S. Surgeon General] and sent down to the state health departments just like the military. If you are in this bureaucratic chain of command, you do not challenge policy without risking your job and your pension. In the case of fluoridation, this policy is orchestrated by the Oral Health Division of the CDC …State health departments throughout the 50 states promote the practice [of fluoridation] faithful to the chain of command.”

Fluoridation discussion covers familiar ground – Daily News-Miner (Fairbanks, Alaska), March 7, 2008:

…But many organized communities steer clear of fluoridation, and the City Council could vote as early as Monday to halt the practice in Fairbanks. The watchdog group Fluoride Action Network lists 70 U.S. cities that have voted against fluoridation within the past nine years…

Opposition to Torrington’s fluoridation proposal – The Torrington Telegram (Wyoming), February 22, 2008:

… Court and Van Dorn also produced several studies and a short video produced by the Fluoride Action Network, an organization that is against the use of fluoride in water supplies. Torrington resident Paul Puebla also spoke, agreeing with Court and Van Dorn.

The fluoride fight continues – WVLT-TV (Knoxville, Tennessee), January 23, 2008:

… Now, a group called the Fluoride Action Network is calling attention to an online action petition calling on congress to stop water fluoridation until hearings are conducted. The group cites new scientific evidence that fluoridation is not only ineffective, but has serious health risks …

Second Thoughts About Fluoride – Scientific American, January 2008, pages 74–81.

Opponents of fluoridation, meanwhile, have been emboldened by the NRC report. “What the committee did was very, very important, because it’s the first time a truly balanced panel has looked at this and raised important questions,” says Paul Connett, a chemistry professor at St. Lawrence University and the executive director of the Fluoride Action Network, one of the most active antifluoridation groups world-wide. “I absolutely believe it’s a scientific turning point because now everything’s on the table.  Fluoride is the most consumed drug in the U.S., and it’s time we talked about it.”

2007:

Fluoride fracas afoot in Erie – Daily Camera (Boulder, CO), November 27, 2007.

… The Canton, N.Y.-based Fluoride Action Network claims that ingesting fluoride yields little dental benefit and may result in a litany of health problems, including bone fracture, bone cancer, joint pain, reduced thyroid activity and IQ deficits. Michael Connett, a spokesman for the organization, said most of Western Europe has rejected fluoridation but has no worse a rate of tooth decay than the United States…

Isle of Man: Fluoride experts go head to head in debate – Isle of Man Today, November 23, 2007:

… EXPERTS went head-to-head as some 120 people packed into the Promenade Methodist Church, on Loch Promenade, Douglas, to hear the arguments for and against fluoridation. The case for each side was presented respectively by Professor Michael Lennon, chairman of the British Fluoridation Society, and Dr Paul Connett, professor emeritus of chemistry at St Lawrence University and executive director the Fluoride Action Network …

Fort Worth stops adding fluoride to water due to shortage – Fort Worth Star-Telegram, November 20, 2007.

Partly as a result, the Fluoride Action Network in August released a statement signed by more than 600 professionals — including more than 100 dentists — calling for an end to water fluoridation. The coalition, composed of health professionals and scientists, said that fluoride in toothpaste has proven effective in preventing tooth decay but argued that it “makes no sense to drink it and expose the rest of the body to the long-term risks of fluoride ingestion.”

The Pros and Cons of Fluoride – ABC South West Victoria (Australia), November 16, 2007.

Meanwhile, the Department of Human Services have taken out newspaper ads to spread their pro-fluoride message, and the Chief Health Officer with the DHS, Dr John Carnie, has also visited Warrnambool to talk to members of the media. At the same time he was here, Dr Paul Connett, the Executive Director of the Fluoride Action Network, was in town speaking at a public event. The two didn’t meet, but Dr Connett did appear on the breakfast program to put forward some of his ideas.

Fluoride no longer in water from Falher plant – Smoky River Express (Alberta, Canada), October 31, 2007

When researching on the internet, Gervais found an information sheet dated Aug. 9, 2007 by the Fluoride Action Network – Calling for an End to Water Fluoridation, signed by 600 professionals from 39 different countries including 50 professionals from Canada and 10 from Alberta. Extensive research by this network indicates that fluoride has more adverse affects including Alzheimer’s disease, osteosarcoma (a frequently fatal bone cancer), increased risk of bone fractures, decreased thyroid function, lowered IQ, arthritic-like conditions, and dental fluorisis.

It’s a gamble, says US professor – Warrnambool Standard (Australia), October 24, 2007

Fluoridation is a gamble with an inadequate margin for safety, according to one of the world’s leading fluoride opponents. Dr Paul Connett, the executive director of the Fluoride Action Network and professor of chemistry at St Lawrence University in New York, addressed about 120 invited guests last night at the Warrnambool Fluoride Action Group meeting.

Fluoride leaves a bitter taste with prominent New Yorker – The Macleay Argus (Australia). October 24, 2007.

“… Prof Connett, who was in Kempsey last week as part of a speaking tour taking in Victoria, NSW and Queensland, retired last year from the chair of Professor of Chemistry at St Lawrence University, in the State of New York… The professor, a director of the Fluoride Action Network, an international grouping of scientists and others opposed to the fluoridation of drinking water supplies, has a blunt message…”

As EPA talks fail, activists will urge Congress to tighten fluoride limits. InsideEPA. August 29, 2007.

Environmentalists and health experts are planning to step up an anti-fluoride campaign by urging Congress to draft legislation tightening EPA’s contaminant limits for fluoride in drinking water after their private talks with EPA late last year failed to yield an agreement on stricter standards… While it remains unclear whether the anti-fluoride plan, in the form of an e-mail campaign initiated by the Fluoride Action Network, will gain any traction among lawmakers, sources involved in it say the effort is necessary after the negotiations with EPA broke down in December 2006…”

Village ends use of fluoride – Daily Gazette (NY)- August 11, 2007.

“After 54 years of drinking water with fluoride added, Cobleskill village residents who believe in its dental benefits will now have to rely on toothpaste and other products… On Friday, the Albany-based Citizens Environmental Coalition issued a statement supporting a plea by 600 health and science professionals urging Congress to stop water fluoridation until congressional hearings are conducted. The coalition said Fluoride Action Network Director Paul Connett is planning an online petition drive based on what the coalition called ‘new scientific evidence that fluoridation, long promoted to fight tooth decay, is ineffective and has serious health risks.” Data from Connett, a St. Lawrence University chemist, is part of what helped persuade Cobleskill officials to stop fluoridation.

KU prof among hundreds demanding hearings on fluoride – Lawrence Journal-World, August 11, 2007.

“… The group issued a statement that cites a 2006 report by the National Research Council on fluoride toxicology. ‘The NRC report dramatically changed scientific understanding of fluoride’s health risks,’ said Paul Connett, executive director of the Fluoride Action Network…”

Supply woes forced Ottawa to shut off fluoride to water – The Ottawa Citizen. August 11, 2007.

“… ‘It’s an excellent thing for them to be short of this chemical,’ said Paul Connett, executive director of the U.S.-based Fluoride Action Network. ‘If having a shortage of it makes them question the practice, that would be very, very good.’ The Fluoride Action Network released a statement this week signed by more than 600 professionals — including more than 100 dentists — calling for an end to water fluoridation. ‘It makes as much sense as swallowing sunblock,’ said Mr. Connett…”

Cities feel bite from shortage of fluoride – The Gazette (Montreal). August 11, 2007.

” ‘It’s an excellent thing for them to be short of this chemical,’ said Paul Connett, executive director of the U.S.-based Fluoride Action Network. ‘If having a shortage of it makes them question the practice, that would be very, very good.’ … According to Health Canada, many studies show fluoridated water greatly reduces the number of cavities in children’s teeth. However, the practice has long had its detractors. The Fluoride Action Network released a statement this week signed by more than 600 professionals – including over 100 dentists – calling for an end to water fluoridation.”

Congress Will Hear Protests from Health Professionals Over Fluoride – The People’s Media Company. August 9, 2007.

“… The protesting group is gaining national attention because of the support it has received from prominent health care and other professionals… Director of the Fluoride Action Network (FAN), Paul Connett, said, ‘The NRC report dramatically changed scientific understanding of fluoride’s health risks.” He added, “Government officials who continue to promote fluoridation must testify under oath as to why they are ignoring the powerful evidence of harm in the NRC report.'”

Health experts bare teeth on fluoride – The Politico, August 9, 2007

“… In a strong statement Thursday, the health professionals called upon lawmakers to stop fluoridation in communities across the nation until their safety concerns are reviewed at congressional hearings. The group, the Fluoride Action Network, cited fresh scientific evidence that fluoridation, long promoted to fight tooth decay, is ineffective and carries serious health risks… The problem, according to the Fluoride Action Network, is that the very water that is treated for dental purposes is also used in the preparation of many food products — from baby formula and cereal to juices, sodas, wines, beers and even fresh produce. These scientists hold that since most toothpastes also contain added fluoride, many people are ingesting far more fluoride than they should….”

Environmental Activists Want Congressional Hearings on Fluoride – CNSNews.com. August 9, 2007

“A group called the Fluoride Action Network is urging Congress to stop the long-time practice of putting fluoride in the nation’s drinking water. It is urging lawmakers to hold hearings on the subject. The Fluoride Action Network, which claims to represent over 600 “professionals,” cites “new scientific evidence that fluoridation, long promoted to fight tooth decay, is ineffective and has serious health risks…”

Fluoride … Good for the teeth or bad to the bone? – The Times Daily (Alabama), July 20, 2008.

… Michael Connett, with the Fluoride Action Network, said 70 communities nationwide have taken the same route since 2000. He contends that fluoride, which is also used as a pesticide and insecticide, has no benefits when consumed as a part of a water supply. “The benefits dentists are taking about are when fluoride is applied directly to teeth,” he said. “The largest source of fluoride exposure for people is in their water because we have so much fluoridation in this country.” …

Earth Talk: A green Q&A column from the editors of E/The Environmental Magazine (June 28, 2007)

“Dear EarthTalk: Why do some people complain about fluoride in drinking water and toothpaste? … The problem, says Fluoride Action Network (FAN), which is opposed to fluoridation, is that the very water supplies that are treated for dental purposes are also used in the making of many common food products—from baby formula and cereal to juices, sodas, wines, beers and even fresh produce. And with most toothpastes also adding fluoride, many people are ingesting far more fluoride than they should….”

A nomination by FAN’s Pesticide Project is selected for a 2007 “Dirty Dozen Award” given to the worst polluters and bad actors in New York state – Watertown Daily Times (New York), May 29, 2007

“Fluoride Action Network Pesticides Project, Canton, nominated one of the “Dirty Dozen” awards announced this week by Citizens’ Environmental Coalition, Albany, a non-profit organization that advocates for pollution prevention and environmental justice…”

Anti-fluoridation camp opens wide in Yarmouth – Cape Cod Times (Massachusetts, USA), May 8, 2007

“… the board last night heard from an opponent; Paul Connett, a professor emeritus of chemistry at St. Lawrence University in New York and executive director of the Fluoride Action Network… Fluoridation is unethical, dangerous and unnecessary, Connett said. The one part-per-million concentration recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and supported by the American Dental Association may be too much, he said… “I urge Yarmouth to wait until the EPA water division has determined a new” maximum contaminant level goal.

Fluoride debated in Cadillac – Cadillac News (Michigan, USA), April 12, 2007

“The benefits of water fluoridation has been exaggerated by its proponents, while its long-term health risks have yet to be adequately addressed,” said Michael Connett, research director for the Fluoride Action Network.

Fluoride Debate Heats Up In Oregon House – Oregon Public Broadcasting, April 4, 2007

“Paul Connett is director of the Fluoride Action Network. He says fluoride can prevent tooth decay. But it’s safer when it comes out of a toothpaste tube, not out of your faucet.”

Need for fluoride questioned – Bar Harbor Times (Maine, USA), February 25, 2007

“A presentation by Michael Connett, the project director for Fluoride Action Network, during the public meeting portion of Tuesday night’s selectmen’s meeting stated that cases of fluorosis – an overexposure to fluoride – have increased five-fold in the past fifty years, now affecting about a third of the U.S. population. He said the condition is even common in non-fluoridated communities, given the prevalence of fluoride in other products.”

Fluoride: Friend or Foe? – WKRG News (Alabama, USA), February 15, 2007

“A video entitled DRINKING WATER, “LET THE TRUTH BE TOLD”, has the attention of water board members. In the video you’ll find information also put out by the Fluoride Action Network, a group against fluoridated drinking water.”

Shortage forces halt to fluoride in water – Palm Beach Post (Florida, USA), January 30, 2007

“Palm Beach County health officials have maintained that fluoride is safe. Opponents argue that it is still unclear how fluoride affects the entire body. Doses of fluoride cannot be regulated because people drink varying amounts of water, they say. Naomi Flack, a member of the steering committee for the South Florida Citizens for Safe Drinking Water and the advisory board of the Fluoride Action Network, said it’s time for commissioners to reconsider their decision. “I think it’s very fortunate for those people in the county who will again be getting unfluoridated water,” Flack said. “I think it’s time for the county to bring the issue up again.”

Use of fluoride in water supply raises questions – Carroll County Times (Maryland, USA), January 22, 2007

“After talking with the caller, who turned out to be a city resident concerned about the safety of putting fluoride in drinking water, Grossnickle began to question public water fluoridation himself. He visited the Web site of the Fluoride Action Network, an international coalition aimed at broadening public awareness about negative health effects of fluoride exposure, and grew more concerned.”

Citizens of Skagit County asked to say no to fluoridation by fiat – Seattle Post-Intelligencer (USA), January 16, 2007

“The public is encouraged to review Skagit Clean Water Web site and the Fluoride Action Network at fluorideaction.net, noting scientific information from the National Academy of Sciences, National Research Council, Environmental Protection Agency and World Health Organization.”

Alert: Could everything you’ve ever been told about fluoride be wrong? – Vegetarian Times (USA), January 2007

“‘Many Americans get too much fluoride and these studies show that,’ says Michael Connett, project director for the Vermont-based Fluoride Action Network (FAN). What’s more, concern over the mineral additive has been growing since the EPA reported in its January 2006 human health risk assessment that Americans are consuming significant amounts of fluoride in the form of sulfuryl fluoride, which is used as a pesticide in facilities storing grains, dried fruit, and nuts.”