A federal judge in California has ruled that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency must strengthen regulations for fluoride in drinking water, citing concerns about potential risks to children’s developing brains. The judge found that fluoride poses an unreasonable risk of harm, specifically citing reduced IQ levels. The ruling was made in response to a lawsuit filed by advocacy groups, which had petitioned the EPA to consider banning fluoridation chemicals in public drinking water. The EPA is currently reviewing the decision.
While water in the U.S. has been fluoridated since 1945, the recommended levels have been lowered over time due to concerns about tooth damage and other risks. Currently, more than 200 million Americans, or about 75% of the population, have fluoride added to their drinking water at recommended levels. This practice is voluntary among communities and is recommended by doctors and dentists to protect children’s teeth.
The ruling has been praised by environmental groups and is seen as a step towards establishing safer standards for fluoride in drinking water. It is noted that the U.S. practice of water fluoridation differs from Europe, where fluoridated drinking water is rare. The EPA’s response to the judge’s ruling could potentially lead to changes in regulations regarding fluoride in drinking water across the country.
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