Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated that if Donald Trump wins the presidential election, his administration will order the removal of fluoride from water supplies. Kennedy, known for promoting controversial theories about chemicals in water, claimed that Trump's administration would advise all U.S. water systems to eliminate fluoride from public water sources. He referred to fluoride as an 'industrial waste' and linked it to various medical conditions.
However, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that while fluoride can be a byproduct of certain industries, it also occurs naturally in water and rocks. Kennedy's assertion that fluoride is solely an industrial waste may oversimplify the issue.
In his social media post, Kennedy alleged that fluoride is associated with conditions such as arthritis, bone fractures, bone cancer, IQ loss, neurodevelopmental disorders, and thyroid disease. He suggested that the Trump administration's stance on fluoride removal is part of an initiative to 'Make America Healthy Again.'
It's important to note that state and local governments typically oversee water supplies in municipalities. The CDC recommends community water fluoridation as a cost-effective method to enhance oral health among residents. However, prolonged exposure to fluoride levels above the recommended amount can lead to skeletal fluorosis, a condition characterized by weaker bones and joint pain.
A recent federal review conducted by the National Institutes of Health's toxicology program found a potential link between higher fluoride levels and lowered IQ in children. The study considered fluoride levels exceeding the recommended limit for drinking water.
While Kennedy's statements have garnered attention, a Trump campaign senior adviser emphasized that the President is currently focused on the upcoming election and has not made any official announcements regarding water fluoridation policies.
