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A recent study conducted at the Keck School of Medicine at USC has uncovered concerning links between higher fluoride levels during pregnancy and increased neurobehavioral problems in children at age three. Published in JAMA Network Open, this research marks the first comprehensive U.S.-based investigation into the effects of prenatal fluoride exposure on child development.
Fluoride, widely added to drinking water since 1945 to combat tooth decay, has come under scrutiny due to its potential neurodevelopmental impacts. The study, led by researchers at USC and supported by the National Institutes of Health, examined over 220 mother-child pairs. It measured fluoride levels from maternal urine samples collected during pregnancy and assessed child behavior using standardized tools at age three.
Results indicated that even modest increases in prenatal fluoride exposure—approximately 0.68 milligrams per liter—were associated with nearly double the likelihood of children exhibiting neurobehavioral issues approaching clinical thresholds. These problems included heightened emotional reactivity, anxiety, and somatic complaints such as headaches and stomachaches.
Dr. Tracy Bastain, senior author of the study, emphasized the significance of these findings: “Women with higher fluoride exposure levels during pregnancy tended to report more neurobehavioral problems in their 3-year-old children. This underscores the potential risks of fluoride consumption during pregnancy, a critical period for brain development.”
The research contributes to mounting evidence from international studies and animal research, suggesting that prenatal fluoride exposure may adversely affect neurodevelopment. Dr. Ashley Malin, lead author and assistant professor at the University of Florida, highlighted the implications: “Our findings are particularly noteworthy as they reflect typical fluoride exposure levels in fluoridated regions of North America, where no known benefits to fetal health from fluoride ingestion have been established.”
The study drew data from the MADRES Center for Environmental Health Disparities at USC, focusing on predominantly Hispanic families in Los Angeles. It underscores the need for reevaluation of current fluoride policies concerning pregnant women’s health.
Despite the lack of official guidelines limiting fluoride intake during pregnancy, researchers advocate for informed policy changes based on emerging evidence. Future studies will explore additional impacts of prenatal fluoride exposure and seek broader insights into mitigating risks to child development.
As debates continue regarding the benefits versus risks of fluoride, these findings urge a cautious approach in public health policies affecting maternal and child well-being.
For more information, the study titled “Maternal Urinary Fluoride and Child Neurobehavior at Age 36 Months” is available in JAMA Network Open.
