HHS Secretary RFK Jr. Advocates for Decreasing Fluoride in Public Water
The Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary, Robert F Kennedy Jr, has openly accepted the risks associated with decreased fluoride levels in public water systems. This potential alteration could witness a rise in dental issues, particularly cavities. Mr Kennedy, since being appointed to his position in the HHS Department, has been vocal about his concerns surrounding water fluoridation on numerous occasions.
In a major cabinet meeting held on April 30, Kennedy expressed his thoughts candidly around fluoride’s impact on children’s intelligence, citing that its presence in water could likely render children ‘less intelligent’. He professed his intentions to reduce the concentration of fluoride present in drinking water across the nation. The proposed reduction of fluoride, according to Kennedy, is an attempt to achieve an equilibrium of benefits and drawbacks concerning fluoride usage.
RFK Jr. recently appeared on a segment of Fox News and further elaborated on the potential fallout of his proposed policy. He acknowledged that this policy could result in the United States witnessing a minor increase in dental cavities. He justified this outcome as a necessary part of striking a ‘balance’ in the health implications of fluoride.
Furthermore, Mr. Kennedy referred to a report from the National Toxicology Program that has raised eyebrows due to its controversial findings. The report asserted a linkage between fluoride exposure exceeding 1.5 milligrams per liter and a decline in intelligence quotient (IQ) of children. Despite varied opinions on this matter, Mr. Kennedy used this study as a basis to argue against current levels of fluoride in drinking water.
Parallel to these discussions on a federal level, there have been significant developments at the state level, particularly in Oklahoma. In an unprecedented move, the state’s Governor, Kevin Stitt, has ratified an executive order. The said order makes it mandatory for the state health department to withdraw from advocating for the inclusion of fluoride in water supplies.
In the face of these potential alterations in policy, the American Dental Association (ADA) has stepped forward. The association has declared its backing for a legislative measure that aims to reintroduce the eligibility for students to receive federal support based on necessity. This move from the ADA indicates their proactive involvement in policy-making in the light of RFK Jr’s assertions.
To further strengthen their position and prepare for future scenarios, the American Dental Association has initiated a novel training program. Named as the Certified Clinic Director program, this initiative aims to equip dentists who are positioned in leadership roles with advanced skills and knowledge. Their objective is to foster a generation of dental leaders who can navigate the ever-changing landscape of dental and public health.