Reader Poll: Fluoride in Water Linked to Hypothyroidism

A new UK study published online February 24 in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health has found that fluoridation of drinking water may be linked to an increased risk for hypothyroidism.

The study compared one completely fluoridated community to a nonfluoridated community and found that hypothyroidism was twice as likely to occur in residents drinking completely fluoridated water. The study authors and a commenter believe these results raise concerns about the safety of this public health measure that aims to reduce rates of tooth decay.

But the British Dental Association (BDA) expressed doubts about the new study. "No definitive conclusions can be drawn about cause and effect from the data," said an advisor to the BDA, adding, "We mustn't forget that fluoridation has a proven benefit in reducing high rates of tooth decay, particularly among those living in the most deprived communities."

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