Latest news with #Gricius
Yahoo
05-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
As Utah's fluoride ban begins, health officials urge Utahns to protect their teeth
As Utah's law banning fluoridation in water takes effect, health officials are focused on educating the public and reminding them that fluoride is now readily available at most pharmacies. (Photo by) Utah is set to become the first state in the nation to ban fluoride in drinking water, with a new law taking effect later this week, on Wednesday. That day, the fluoride taps will turn off, if they haven't already. While Davis and Salt Lake counties, and Brigham City, are the only governments that still add fluoride to drinking water, roughly half of the state's population lives there. Sponsored by Rep. Stephanie Gricius, R-Eagle Mountain, HB81 prevents counties and municipalities from adding fluoride to drinking water, while adding it to the list of drugs pharmacists can prescribe. The reasoning, Gricius said, is that the decision should be left to the individual. 'I would just say it doesn't get more local control than my own body,' she said during the legislative session earlier this year. RFK Jr. 'proud' of Utah's ban on fluoride in drinking water, hopes other states will follow Gricius' bill was one of several that aligned with the 'Make America Healthy Again,' or MAHA, agenda promoted by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who praised the law earlier this year. Now, for health officials like Stacey Bank, executive medical director for the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, the focus is on educating the public and reminding them that fluoride is now readily available at most pharmacies. 'I'm grateful for the opportunity to have this conversation. We haven't talked about oral health and fluoride this much in my career as long as I can remember. This is an opportunity to get the message out to the entire state,' she said on Friday. 'I know it's not always easy to get into a doctor or dentist, there are barriers there. Going to your local pharmacist, talking to the person behind the counter, is enough to take care of your teeth.' There are currently 25 water systems serving about 1.6 million people spread out across Davis and Salt Lake counties, and Brigham City, that add fluoride to the water. Brigham City has been adding fluoride to the water since the 1960s; Davis County started in 1999; and Salt Lake County in 2003. Some treatment plants have already stopped adding fluoride to the water, including a handful in Davis County, and Salt Lake County's City Creek Water Treatment Plant. 'If I was looking into a crystal ball, we're going to see a decline in oral health if our community doesn't take action, and now go to their dentist and talk about what's best for them and receive their supplements. If that happens, I don't think we'll see much of a change,' said Brian Hatch, director of the Davis County Health Department. In Salt Lake County, where the water has been fluoridated for almost two decades, health officials say they're losing an effective public health tool. 'From a public health standpoint, we know that community water fluoridation is the best way to benefit individuals and the overall community's oral health,' added Ron Lund, environmental health director for the Salt Lake County Health Department. 'It's the most efficient and effective way to do that for people who cannot afford or may not be able to go to routine dental visits.' But while health officials say it's possible they'll see an uptick in cavities in regions currently fluoridating their water, others see the bill as an opportunity. Most of rural Utah has already stopped adding the mineral to the public water supply. Fluoride is a hot topic now, and with the May 7 deadline approaching, it gives public health experts a chance to educate communities, they say. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX 'It's an opportunity for our more rural communities. Other than Brigham City, none of our rural communities have been adding fluoride to the water. So this is bringing more attention to how important fluoride is and giving them access to get it, that they may not have known they needed,' said State Dental Director Stacey Swilling. But concern remains. Shifting the responsibility to individuals means Utahns will have to be more proactive about getting fluoride, which could be a burden, especially to low-income families that may already struggle with access to transportation or public health information. Swilling, who used to practice dentistry in another state, said it was clear which patients have access to fluoridated water. 'Anectdoally, where I used to practice, I can tell you I saw a huge difference … There's plenty of research out there that does show the disparities,' she said, pointing to studies conducted in Juneau, Alaska, and Calgary, Alberta, where the removal of fluoride from drinking water resulted in a spike in cavities. Most officials agree — Utah is headed into uncharted waters. While there are case studies in other cities, counties, states and countries, Utah is the first U.S. state to pass a sweeping ban, while also trying to make fluoride more accessible over the counter. 'We don't know how this is going to turn out,' Bank said. 'We know about barriers to care, that's our job, to look for and eliminate those. At this point, we're trying to educate the public. It is going to take a more proactive effort, and we are going to have to look at those barriers and let this unfold to see how those barriers are affecting people.' Fluoride is a mineral that has been shown to strengthen teeth by replacing minerals that are lost from acid breakdown, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Since the 1940s, communities around the country have been fluoridating their water. A recent report from the National Toxicology Program found that high levels of fluoride in drinking water can be associated with a lower I.Q. in children, but according to the report, those levels are twice as high as the current recommended amount of fluoride. 'The thing we need to know about those studies is that they were done looking at fluoride levels that were far outside what we are recommending for oral health,' Bank said. 'We know what we're trying to do today is a safe and effective dose of fluoride.' Still, that drop in I.Q. is often cited as a reason to stop adding fluoride to water, part of a nationwide movement against the mineral. Perhaps the most prominent critic of fluoride is Kennedy Jr., who applauded Gricius' bill during a stop in Utah in April. 'It makes no sense to have fluoride in our water. The evidence against fluoride is overwhelming … we know that it causes I.Q. loss,' Kennedy, a longtime critic of certain public health policies and medical practices, said during his visit 'I'm very, very proud of this state for being the first state to ban (fluoride). I hope many more will come.' Gricius' bill passed mostly along party lines, with a handful of Republicans joining Democrats in opposition. Despite the pushback from dentists and other health professionals, it was signed by Utah Gov. Spencer Cox on March 27. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
Fox News
11-03-2025
- Health
- Fox News
First state to ban fluoride in drinking water will heed MAHA movement's call to action
Utah is set to place a ban on fluoride in public drinking water. The bill, HB81, awaits Governor Spencer Cox's signature, setting a precedent as the first state to put the ban in place. Bill sponsor, Representative Stephanie Gricius, told Fox News Digital she has been working on this policy since early last year, noting that fluoride is federally regulated as a prescription. "Community water fluoridation and informed consent, which is foundational to good health care, cannot coexist. I believe strongly in individual choice when it comes to what prescriptions we put into our bodies," said Gricius. She said only two of Utah's 29 counties practice community water fluoridation, allowing the opportunity to find data on children's dental decay. "With a sample size of more than 70,000 children from the last 12 months, there is no significant difference between counties that add fluoride and those that do not. In fact, the county with the lowest amount of decay does not add fluoride," Gricius added. More than 200 million people in the U.S. receive fluoridated water through community water systems, the Associated Press (AP) reported. Grand Rapids, Michigan, was the first city to implement water fluoridation in 1945, according to the CDC. American Dental Association President Brad Kessler told the AP, "We've got tried and true evidence of the safety and efficacy of this public health initiative." "Community water fluoridation benefits all members of a community by preventing cavities, reducing oral health disparities, and saving money for everyone," the CDC's website states. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and MAHA supporters have been outspoken about banning fluoride in drinking water. "Fluoride is an industrial waste associated with arthritis, bone fractures, bone cancer, IQ loss, neurodevelopmental disorders, and thyroid disease," Kennedy wrote on X in November. A study published in "Environmental Health Perspectives" on July 20, 2012, conducted by researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health, "found strong indications that fluoride may adversely affect cognitive development in children." "Future research should include detailed individual-level information on prenatal exposure, neurobehavioral performance, and covariates for adjustment," the study, titled, "Developmental Fluoride Neurotoxicity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis," concluded. Emma Post, MAHA Action Press Secretary, told Fox News Digital that Utah's decision "is a step towards greater health autonomy and reducing unnecessary chemical exposures." "To truly Make America Healthy Again, Americans need to have the freedom to decide what they put into their bodies based on individual preference or their specific health needs," Post added. The CDC does not mandate community water fluoridation, but named fluoridation of drinking water one of 10 great public health interventions of the 20th century, citing the dramatic decline of cavities. Fox News Digital reached out to Governor Cox's office for comment.
Yahoo
11-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Utah poised to become first state to ban fluoride in public water system
By Brad Brooks (Reuters) -Utah is set to become the first U.S. state to ban the use of fluoride in public water systems after Utah Governor Spencer Cox said he would sign legislation to that effect. The use of the mineral, which is added to water to strengthen tooth enamel and promote dental health, has been a hot-button political issue in some states for decades. The Utah ban, set to begin in early May, follows the appointment of U.S. health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who opposes the addition of fluoride to public water systems and has said Republican President Donald Trump will call for an end to its use. See for yourself — The Yodel is the go-to source for daily news, entertainment and feel-good stories. By signing up, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy. 'It's not a bill I felt strongly about; it's not a bill I care that much about, but it's a bill I will sign,' Cox, a Republican, said in a weekend interview with Utah television station ABC4. Hawaii does not use fluoride in its public water systems, but does not have any specific statewide ban against the practice. Utah Representative Stephanie Gricius, a Republican and chief sponsor of the bill, said it allows pharmacists to prescribe fluoride for those wanting the mineral's protection for their teeth. "I believe in individual choice when it comes to what prescriptions we put into our bodies and fluoride is federally regulated as a prescription," Gricius wrote in an email. "Community water fluoridation and informed consent, which is foundational to good health care, cannot coexist." Gricius noted that just two of Utah's 29 counties currently add fluoride to water, and that by allowing citizens to obtain fluoride tablets from a pharmacist, her bill makes it easier for citizens in the entire state to obtain fluoride should they choose to do so. The American Dental Association had sent a letter to Governor Cox urging him to veto the bill. The association noted that about 50% of Utah residents reside in those two counties that currently add fluoride to water. It cited Utah Department of Health and Human Services data showing that areas of the state without fluoride in the water have experienced an increase in dental disease, whereas those with it have seen decreases. The association also pointed to U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates showing that fluoride-treated water saves about $6.5 billion each year in dental treatment costs nationally. HEALTH CONCERNS Those opposed to the use of fluoride in water say it is associated with numerous health issues, including certain cancers and lower cognitive ability among children. The American Cancer Society on its website says the general consensus among scientific reviews examining possible links between fluoride and cancer show no strong evidence connecting the two. However, the society says more studies are needed. In January, researchers at the U.S. National Institutes of Health who analyzed 74 studies from 10 countries found IQs were lower in children with higher fluoride exposure. The results "support concerns for vulnerable populations living in communities with fluoridated water," an editorial that accompanied the NIH report said. A second editorial, however, detailed multiple weaknesses of the NIH analyses and warned that public policy on fluoride should not be affected by the study. A federal judge in California last year ordered the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to strengthen regulations for fluoride in drinking water, saying the compound poses an unreasonable potential risk to children at levels currently typical nationwide. The EPA under former President Joe Biden appealed that ruling. About 63% of all Americans have fluoride in their community water systems, according to CDC statistics as of 2022, the most recent data available. In most of the world, fluoride is not added to the public water supply. Some countries add fluoride to table salt. In some regions, fluoride levels in water are naturally high.
Reuters
11-03-2025
- Health
- Reuters
Utah poised to become first state to ban fluoride in public water system
March 11 (Reuters) - Utah is set to become the first U.S. state to ban the use of fluoride in public water systems after Utah Governor Spencer Cox said he would sign legislation to that effect. The use of the mineral, which is added to water to strengthen tooth enamel and promote dental health, has been a hot-button political issue in some states for decades. The Utah ban, set to begin in early May, follows the appointment of U.S. health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who opposes the addition of fluoride to public water systems and has said Republican President Donald Trump will call for an end to its use. 'It's not a bill I felt strongly about; it's not a bill I care that much about, but it's a bill I will sign,' Cox, a Republican, said in a weekend interview with Utah television station ABC4. Hawaii does not use fluoride in its public water systems, but does not have any specific statewide ban against the practice. Utah Representative Stephanie Gricius, a Republican and chief sponsor of the bill, said it allows pharmacists to prescribe fluoride for those wanting the mineral's protection for their teeth. "I believe in individual choice when it comes to what prescriptions we put into our bodies and fluoride is federally regulated as a prescription," Gricius wrote in an email. "Community water fluoridation and informed consent, which is foundational to good health care, cannot coexist." Gricius noted that just two of Utah's 29 counties currently add fluoride to water, and that by allowing citizens to obtain fluoride tablets from a pharmacist, her bill makes it easier for citizens in the entire state to obtain fluoride should they choose to do so. The American Dental Association had sent a letter to Governor Cox urging him to veto the bill. The association noted that about 50% of Utah residents reside in those two counties that currently add fluoride to water. It cited Utah Department of Health and Human Services data showing that areas of the state without fluoride in the water have experienced an increase in dental disease, whereas those with it have seen decreases. The association also pointed to U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates showing that fluoride-treated water saves about $6.5 billion each year in dental treatment costs nationally. HEALTH CONCERNS Those opposed to the use of fluoride in water say it is associated with numerous health issues, including certain cancers and lower cognitive ability among children. The American Cancer Society on its website says the general consensus among scientific reviews examining possible links between fluoride and cancer show no strong evidence connecting the two. However, the society says more studies are needed. In January, researchers at the U.S. National Institutes of Health who analyzed 74 studies from 10 countries found IQs were lower in children with higher fluoride exposure. The results "support concerns for vulnerable populations living in communities with fluoridated water," an editorial that accompanied the NIH report said. A second editorial, however, detailed multiple weaknesses of the NIH analyses and warned that public policy on fluoride should not be affected by the study. A federal judge in California last year ordered the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to strengthen regulations for fluoride in drinking water, saying the compound poses an unreasonable potential risk to children at levels currently typical nationwide. The EPA under former President Joe Biden appealed that ruling. About 63% of all Americans have fluoride in their community water systems, according to CDC statistics, opens new tab as of 2022, the most recent data available. In most of the world, fluoride is not added to the public water supply. Some countries add fluoride to table salt. In some regions, fluoride levels in water are naturally high. Keep up with the latest medical breakthroughs and healthcare trends with the Reuters Health Rounds newsletter. Sign up here.
Yahoo
25-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Utah on the verge of being the first state to ban fluoride in public water
Utah is on the verge of becoming the first state to prohibit cities and towns from adding fluoride to their public water supply. The Utah Senate on Friday voted 18-8 to give final approval to HB81, sponsored by state Rep. Stephanie Gricius (R). It now goes to Gov. Spencer Cox for his consideration. If Cox signs the bill, fluoride would be banned by May 7. His office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The push to ban fluoride comes as Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has expressed skepticism and sometimes outright hostility about water fluoridation, which is considered one of the great public health achievements of the 20th century. Prior to the election, Kennedy called fluoride an 'industrial waste.' In a social media post, Gricius celebrated the bill's passage. 'Utah is leading the way in health freedom!' Gricius wrote. 'I'm pleased to announce that HB81 has passed both the House and Senate and is headed to the Governor for his signature. I'm so grateful to everyone who helped push this policy.' Gricius added a hashtag 'MAHA,' short for Make America Healthy Again, the slogan used by Kennedy and his supporters. Fluoride is a naturally occurring substance that helps to prevent tooth decay by strengthening and rebuilding weakened tooth enamel. Water fluoridation has occurred in the U.S. since 1945, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends community fluoridation as a cost-effective way to improve Americans' oral health. Scientific evidence shows that fluoridating water is beneficial to dental health and safe at the levels the U.S. currently maintains, but the anti-fluoridation movement has been gaining traction amid a growing distrust of public and civic officials since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Utah bill would not only ban fluoride, it would also explicitly prohibit municipalities and counties from passing their own ordinances requiring or permitting fluoridation. However, it would add fluoride to the list of drugs that can be prescribed by a pharmacist. Gricius argued the bill increases personal freedom, and making fluoride easier to access from a pharmacy allows people to choose for themselves. Few Utah communities currently add fluoride to water, and the state already allows the decision to be put to a local vote. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
