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Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK) has announced that the Trump administration would prioritize removing fluoride from public water systems if elected.
What’s the deal: In an announcement on X, RFK wrote, “On January 20, the Trump White House will advise all US water systems to remove fluoride from public water. Fluoride is an industrial waste associated with arthritis, bone fractures, bone cancer, IQ loss, neurodevelopmental disorders, and thyroid disease. President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump want to Make America Healthy Again.”
Why is fluoride put in the water?: Since the mid-20th century, fluoride has been added to public water systems to prevent tooth decay and improve oral health. This practice began after studies revealed that communities with naturally occurring fluoride in their water had lower rates of cavities. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, making teeth more resistant to decay, particularly benefiting children and individuals with limited access to dental care. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fluoridated water reduces cavities by about 25% across populations, offering an inexpensive and equitable way to promote dental health.
Two different views: Those opposed to water fluoridation argue that adding fluoride to public water supplies poses health risks and raises ethical concerns. They claim that while fluoride may be safe at recommended doses, prolonged exposure to higher levels may contribute to issues such as thyroid dysfunction, skeletal fluorosis, and reduced IQ in children. Some also say that adding fluoride to water is an involuntary medication, and they believe individuals should have the right to choose what substances they consume.
Supporters of water fluoridation argue that it is a safe, effective, and cost-efficient way to prevent tooth decay and improve public health across entire communities. Those in support of water fluoridation point to studies by the CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO), which show that fluoridated water reduces cavities by about 25% in both children and adults, making it a vital public health measure. Major health organizations, such as the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics, strongly endorse fluoridation as a safe and equitable approach to reducing dental disease.
