Letter: Lack of Consultation Leaves a Bad Taste in the Mouth

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Dear Editor, It appears that the Health Secretary wants to see fluoride added to all drinking water in the UK. The Government is also talking about consultation. I hope that this is a sincere intention because fundamental issues are raised. There is evidence (although it can be exaggerated) that fluoridation has some impact on dental health, especially amongst those who don't look after their teeth. Those who do may benefit less, and decay rates have been improving across countries whether they add fluoride or not. There is a downside in terms of fluorosis (mottled teeth) and some research suggests possible links to hip fractures and bladder cancer.

In Birmingham fluoride has been added since the 1960s. I do not recall having a choice in the matter. Certainly there is none now, since filters do not remove fluoride - a fact not often stated on the box. The fluoride issue is one example of population dosing, others being under consideration. I am concerned about this not simply on grounds of individual freedom (think also of the loss of same in our surveillance society) but also because, while health experts are usually right at least when they agree, when they are wrong the price can be very high indeed.

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Letter: Lack of Consultation Leaves a Bad Taste in the Mouth

If there is a genuine d...

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