A meta-analysis of 74 studies revealed a significant inverse association between fluoride exposure and children’s IQ scores. Higher fluoride exposure was linked to a 0.45 standardised mean difference (SMD) reduction in IQ (95% CI −0.57 to −0.33, P<0.001). A dose-response pattern was observed, with every 1 mg/L increase in urinary fluoride associated with a 1.63-point IQ drop, though the effect was smaller in low-bias studies (−1.14 points). Importantly, at water fluoride levels below 1.5 mg/L, the association was not statistically significant, suggesting that risk may be threshold-dependent.
These findings reignite the debate on balancing fluoride’s dental benefits with potential neurodevelopmental impacts. To read more; Click here What should be the next step in fluoride policy for children’s health? A) Maintain current fluoride levels as safe B) Reassess and lower fluoride limits in…
