To the editor:
I wish to take issue with the article by Cindy VanSchalkwyk in the edition of Feb. 23, 2005, regarding the health affects of fluoride in the water supply.
Naomi Malik is certainly entitled to her opinion about fluoridation and any health problems that may result from drinking fluoridated water, but her opinion seems counter to that of the Academy of Sciences, and scientific organizations in Europe, Canada, Australia, and Japan. Fluoride as a mineral supplement has been successfully used and studied for over 50 years. In short, individuals taking appropriate levels of fluoride from a young age have shown a highly significant decrease in tooth decay with no adverse physical problems.
Ms. Malik indicates that taking fluoride may increase the risk of heath problems such as cancer or kidney disease. Indeed, in 1997 the EPA, in the Federal Register, stated that exposure to appropriate levels of fluoride caused no increased risk of cancer. This was based on a review of over 50 studies spanning over half a century. Studies also show no correlation between kidney disease and fluoride use. Ongoing studies continue to show no other adverse effects. As for fluoride being toxic, in extremely high doses it may be: but so are aspirin, acetaminophen, or even table salt (sodium chloride) in overdose.
I have been a practicing dentist for over 30 years. I have seen children in non-fluoridated communities with decay rates that would shock most readers of this paper. I have also treated many children in the Fall River community who have good dental health in part because of a very small addition of fluoride to the water supply.
Fluoride as a public health issue pops up periodically. Fluoridating water is a method of replacing a mineral which occurs naturally in many parts of the world, but is not present in other parts. It has been called one of the most cost-effective public health measures ever. In multiple studies it has been shown to be safe and effective. Indeed, some studies suggest that high fluoride doses in post-menopausal women may prevent some of the fractures associated with osteoporosis.
I found this article, and especially the full page layout, very misleading. I strongly suggest that anyone truly interested in fluoride should talk to their health care professionals, especially their dentist or pediatrician.
Stuart W. Levine, D.D.S.
9 Seaview Drive
