A new study published in the Environmental Health Perspectives journal by Karolinska Institutet in Sweden has raised concerns over the impact of fluoride exposure during the foetal stage or early childhood on children’s cognitive development. This research builds on earlier findings, highlighting the potential risks of fluoride in drinking water.
Key Findings
The study followed 500 mothers and their children in rural Bangladesh, where naturally occurring fluoride is present in the drinking water. Researchers measured fluoride levels in urine samples of mothers and children to assess their exposure from drinking water, food, and dental care products.
Key observations included:
- Children with over 0.72 mg/L fluoride in their urine by the age of ten demonstrated lower cognitive abilities compared to those with lower fluoride exposure.
- The most significant effects were seen in verbal reasoning skills and sensory interpretation.
The Controversy Around Fluoride
Fluoride, commonly added to municipal water supplies in countries like the US, Canada, and Australia to prevent dental caries, has been the subject of debate due to potential health risks. While fluoride levels are usually maintained at approximately 0.7 mg/L in treated water, elevated concentrations in well water pose risks in some regions.
“Even relatively low concentrations of fluoride can impact children’s early development,” said Dr. Maria Kippler, Associate Professor at Karolinska Institutet.
Implications for Public Health
While toothpaste containing fluoride remains essential for dental health, the researchers stressed caution, particularly for young children, to avoid swallowing it. The study encourages governments and stakeholders to further investigate the potential risks of fluoride exposure through drinking water, especially in areas where naturally high levels are present.
Future Directions
The researchers recommend additional longitudinal studies to confirm these findings and provide a clearer understanding of fluoride’s impact on early development. With growing international discussions around fluoride in drinking water, this study underscores the need for informed public health policies to balance benefits and risks.
