Could this study end the debate over whether fluoridated water causes cognitive decline?
In an attempt to settle the debate over whether fluoridated water is safe as a public health measure, a new study by an Australian university reports no link between fluoridated water and cognitive decline.
Starting in 2012, the two-year National Child Oral Health Study by the University of Queensland’s School of Dentistry tested the IQ scores of 357 participants—now aged 16 to 26—assessed by registered psychologists. The study aimed to determine whether early childhood exposure to fluoride affected brain development.
“We found those who’d consistently been drinking fluoridated water had an IQ score 1.07 points higher on average than those with no exposure,” says Professor Loc Do from UQ’s School of Dentistry.
“We also found people who had dental fluorosis—a reliable biomarker related to excessive fluoride intake in early childhood—had IQ scores 0.28 points higher on average than those without,” he added. “Factors that may affect the relationship between fluoride and IQ, such as socioeconomic status, were taken into account when determining the results.”
Study spans different departments
The research is supported by a grant from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). And its collaborators include experts in dental research, psychology, toxicology and biostatistics from the University of Adelaide, Queensland Health, and the University of Bristol in the U.K.
The study is the latest amid a growing debate whether to eliminate water fluoridation in the United States. Last month, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for health secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has pledged to end fluoridation, calling it “industrial waste” that causes cognitive decline and other health problems. Also, a U.S. federal agency in August determined — “with moderate confidence” — that there is a link between higher levels of fluoride exposure and lower IQ in kids.
Meanwhile, the BBC reported last month that the British Dental Association (BDA) was considering adding fluoride to drinking water in more areas in northern England.
Effective in preventing dental decay
In the Australian study, co-author Dr. Diep Ha said water fluoridation remains highly effective in preventing dental decay.
“Approximately 90 per cent of the Australian population has access to fluoridated water, but many regional and remote areas are not covered,” Dr. Ha said.
“Dental decay, or cavities, is the most common chronic childhood disease worldwide. It can be quite painful, and teeth often have to be removed.
“Fluoridation is very effective in preventing these issues, and this research provides reassurance that it is safe to be expanded into more communities.”
First phase found no difference
This study is the second phase of research, adding to earlier findings, which showed no differences in behavioural development and executive functioning between children exposed to fluoridated water and those who were not.
