A growing movement in Florida is leading cities to stop fluoridating drinking water, citing health concerns and personal choice over established public health practices.
Fenit Nirappil reports for The Washington Post.
In short:
- Melbourne, Florida, became the largest community in the state to end water fluoridation, impacting 170,000 residents.
- Anti-fluoride activists gained momentum with support from Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo, who called fluoridation “public health malpractice.”
- While mainstream health organizations defend fluoride’s safety, concerns about its potential effects on children’s IQ and other health risks are driving local debates.
Key quote:
“The medical professionals are doing more research and saying maybe this isn’t a good idea.”
— Melbourne Mayor Paul Alfrey
Why this matters:
Fluoridation has been a cornerstone of public health for reducing cavities, but growing opposition raises concerns about misinformation and access to oral care, particularly for underserved populations. The trend in Florida could influence nationwide debates, as trust in medical institutions and public health policies faces increased scrutiny.
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