Lead pollution reduces IQs across the Roman Empire
- A new meta-analysis indicates that fluoride exposure may reduce IQ scores in children when levels exceed certain thresholds.
- The majority of studies reviewed were conducted outside the U.S., primarily in settings with much higher natural fluoride levels than recommended in the country.
- These findings raise questions about the safety and implications of current U.S. water fluoridation practices and call for further research.
In recent times, researchers at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences have conducted a federal meta-analysis assessing the effects of fluoride exposure on children's IQ scores. The analysis highlights a correlation between high levels of fluoride and reduced IQ, particularly at concentrations higher than 4 milligrams per liter. While fluoride is widely added to drinking water for dental health, studies included in this analysis predominantly originate from countries like China, India, and Mexico, where fluoride levels often exceed those recommended by the U.S. Public Health Service. The lack of U.S.-based studies raises concerns over the applicability of these findings to American children. Experts, including Dr. Brett Kessler of the American Dental Association, emphasize the need to understand that the fluoride levels examined are not reflective of the regulated amounts in U.S. public water systems, underscoring the necessity for careful interpretation of the findings. In parallel, research has also suggested that lead pollution contributed to a decrease in IQ levels in ancient Rome, drawing connections between environmental contaminants and cognitive development across different historical contexts. The findings from these studies invoke significant debate regarding public health policies and the potential risks associated with water fluoridation practices. Given the ongoing controversies and emerging research, both the public and health officials are urged to reassess current perceptions of fluoride's safety and efficacy in community water systems.