1. United States
2. Utah
3. Letter

I am writing to express my strong opposition to any efforts to ban fluoride from our public water supply. The removal of fluoride would be a grave mistake with serious public health consequences, particularly for children and vulnerable populations. Fluoridation of public water has been a widely accepted and scientifically supported public health measure for decades. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), community water fluoridation is one of the ten greatest public health achievements of the 20th century. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay and has been shown to reduce cavities by up to 25% in both children and adults. It is a cost-effective and safe method of improving dental health across all socioeconomic backgrounds. Furthermore, the American Dental Association (ADA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and numerous other health and scientific organizations support the controlled addition of fluoride to water supplies. The claims that fluoride is harmful or unnecessary are not supported by credible scientific evidence. In fact, areas that have removed fluoride from their water supplies have seen a significant rise in dental issues, leading to increased healthcare costs and suffering, particularly among lower-income families who may not have access to alternative sources of fluoride treatment. In Utah, where access to affordable dental care is already a challenge for many residents, banning fluoride would exacerbate existing health disparities. Our state should prioritize the well-being of its citizens and rely on sound scientific research rather than misinformation when making public health decisions. I urge you to oppose any measures that would remove fluoride from our water system. The long-term benefits of fluoridation far outweigh any unfounded concerns, and maintaining this vital public health practice is crucial for the well-being of our community. Thank you for your time and consideration. I appreciate your dedication to the health and safety of our residents, and I hope you will make the right decision in preserving fluoride in our water supply.