A coalition of more than 200 health professional organizations and research bodies backed the safety and effectiveness of water fluoridation, according to an April 15 news release from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
Here are five things to know:
- The letter from the coalition is in response to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. advising the CDC to stop recommending adding fluoride to public water supplies.
- The organizations have raised concerns about the removal of fluoride on the oral and overall health of both children and adults.
- Community water fluoridation is a way for individuals, especially those most at risk for dental disease, to receive the cavity-preventing benefits.
- Members of Congress, as well as health officials, will be sent the letter.
- In addition to the AAPD, other groups in the coalition include the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Dental Association, Families USA, First Focus on Children, the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners and the Center for Medicare Advocacy.
Read the full letter here.