Introduction
The decision by Utah and Florida to ban Fluoride in public drinking water has ignited a national debate about the role of fluoride in public health. As the FDA considers banning prescription fluoride supplements, the discussion has reached a fever pitch, with experts weighing in on both sides of the issue.
Fluoride in New York City
In New York City, often hailed for its high-quality water, the Department of Environmental Protection meticulously monitors fluoride levels. The city’s acting commissioner of health emphasizes the importance of maintaining precise fluoride levels to ensure public health. “Too little and it doesn’t do its job. Too much and it could be harmful,” she explained. The recommended concentration by the CDC is 0.7 milligrams per liter, roughly equivalent to three drops of water in a 55-gallon barrel.
National Concerns and Expert Opinions
The current national debate has been fueled by a report from the National Toxicology Program, linking high levels of fluoride—more than double the recommended amount—to lower IQ in children. However, the report found insufficient data on the impact of lower fluoride levels. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. is advocating for the removal of fluoride altogether, citing these concerns.
Dr. Vicki Evangelita Sackelson from Columbia University’s Dental College supports the continued use of fluoride, arguing that it is both safe and effective. She urges politicians to rely on scientific data rather than emotions. “It is a complex problem, and they should give money and funding to do the studies. So when we talk, we talk based on data and not feelings,” she asserted.
Implications for Public Health
The debate over fluoride in drinking water underscores a broader discussion about public health and the role of government in regulating substances for the public good. With the FDA and EPA reviewing the recent findings, the future of fluoride in public water supplies hangs in the balance.
Conclusion
As states like Utah and Florida move forward with their bans, other states and cities will likely face pressure to re-evaluate their own policies. The outcome of this debate will have lasting implications for public health and policy across the United States.
Original article online at: https://foxrgv.tv/fluoride-controversy-utah-and-florida-ban-sparks-national-debate/