"Children Drinking Tap Water Long-Term Show Lower IQ" ... Reason Revealed by US Researchers

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Cavity Prevention Effect... Mainly Contained in Toothpaste

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A study has found that fluoride, known to help dental health, may lower intelligence quotient (IQ).

On the 21st (local time), the US Associated Press (AP) reported on research results from the US National Toxicology Program (NTP). The NTP analyzed studies conducted in Canada, China, Mexico, and other countries, confirming that children who drank tap water containing more than 1.5 mg of fluoride per liter for a long period could experience a decrease in IQ.

The AP stated about the research report, "It was not written to determine the effects of fluoride in tap water on children's health," and added, "It is unusual that it acknowledged that high fluoride levels could pose risks."

The NTP did not specify exact amounts of fluoride affecting IQ or the degree of IQ decline. However, some studies indicated that children exposed to high levels of fluoride could experience an IQ drop of about 2 to 5 points.

Previously, a joint research team from the US and Canada announced findings that pregnant women drinking fluoride-containing tap water could lower their fetus's IQ. It is especially known to have a greater impact on boys than girls.

Meanwhile, fluoride is an element naturally present in compound form. It is famous for its effect in preventing dental caries (tooth decay) and is widely used in toothpaste, as well as in pharmaceuticals and industrial materials.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.