New and Common Anti-fluoridation Arguments

Despite abundant evidence of the benefits and safety of community water fluoridation, there have been allegations of lack of benefit and harm from this important public health measure acclaimed as one of ten great public health achievements of the 20th century. These allegations were first made prior to the initiation of the community trials that started in 1945 and have continued ever since and appear to be increasing with increasing access to readily available information and disinformation on the Internet. The allegations reflect society’s concerns which change over time; concerns with human and environmental health, with the products used and with ethical and legal protections. Basic understanding of scientific principles of chemistry, toxicology and epidemiology are generally lacking among decision makers, whether they be elected or appointed individuals or registered voters. While courts have ultimately rejected arguments against fluoridation, petitioners persist. This presentation will discuss anti-fluoridation arguments and present evidence that counters these allegations, together with authoritative and reliable information sources.