HHS, EPA review fluoride guidance amid debate over health impacts

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is set to reconvene an independent panel to review and potentially change recommendations regarding fluoride in drinking water, following statements from Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. who has expressed opposition to fluoridation. His remarks come as Utah has enacted a ban on fluoride in public water systems, marking a significant political shift on this contentious issue. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will also assess new scientific data on fluoride's health risks, which could inform future regulations. Critics, including the American Dental Association, warn that removing fluoride could lead to increased dental health issues, particularly among populations with limited access to dental care. While some studies suggest limited health risks associated with fluoride, concerns about its safety persist. As the situation unfolds, the future of fluoride regulation in the U.S. remains uncertain.