JAMA Pediatrics study links fluoride exposure to lower IQ in children

During a recent meeting of the House Human Services Committee in North Dakota, significant discussions emerged regarding the implications of fluoride exposure on children's cognitive development. A nine-year study published in JAMA Pediatrics highlighted a concerning correlation between fluoride levels and IQ scores in children. According to the findings, each increase of one part per million of fluoride in urine was linked to a decrease of approximately one IQ point. This decline is particularly alarming, as the report noted that a five-point drop in a population's average IQ could nearly double the number of individuals classified as intellectually disabled.

The committee also referenced a report from the National Toxicology Program, which indicated that fluoride levels exceeding the recommended limits are associated with lower IQ in children. This report, along with a review of studies from various countries including Canada, China, and Mexico, suggests that drinking water with fluoride concentrations above 1.5 milligrams per liter consistently correlates with diminished cognitive abilities in children.

These discussions underscore the importance of monitoring fluoride levels in drinking water, as the potential long-term effects on children's health and intelligence could have far-reaching implications for the community. As the committee continues to explore this issue, residents may want to stay informed about any proposed measures to address fluoride exposure in North Dakota's water supply. The outcomes of these discussions could play a crucial role in shaping public health policies aimed at protecting the cognitive development of future generations.