Canada - Health Unit defends flouride in water

News for Wednesday, August 27th, 2008
Health Unit defends flouride in waterWritten by Christine Curtis
The Grey Bruce Health Unit is weighing in on the fluoride debate.
A panel of experts commissioned by Health Canada recently recommended lowering the amount of fluoride added to municipal water and toothpaste.
Implementing any reductions would be up to individual municipalities.
Manager of Health Protection Lou D'Alesandro says Owen Sound's water is well within recommended guidelines for fluoride levels.
D'Alesandro quotes the World Health Organisation which states that universal access to fluoride for dental health is a part of the basic human right to life.
He agrees with experts who say that water fluroridation helps prevent tooth decay.
He says that although the Health Canada study recommends lowering fluoride levels because of possible adverse effects on children, further studies need to be done.
D'Alesandro says there are many other factors that can affect a child's development and I.Q., including socio-economic reasons.