Redding Residents To Vote on Water Fluoridation Ban
Redding residents tomorrow will vote on the "emotionally charged" Measure A, which would ban the addition of certain chemical compounds, including fluoride, to the water supply, the Los Angeles Times reports. Local medical and dental organizations oppose Measure A because they say fluoridation is "an essential tool in preventing tooth decay for all ages and socioeconomic levels," the Times reports. According to the American Dental Association, water fluoridation reduces cavities by as much as 60% in children and almost 35% in adults. However, a "small but vocal group of activists" support Measure A. Jeff Green, director of San Diego-based Citizens for Safe Drinking Water, said fluoride has been linked to hip fractures and lead poisoning in children, adding, "There seems to be plenty of evidence out there, but (the media) are not reporting it." The measure was prompted by the city council's decision to approve water fluoridation pending a cost-analysis. A 1995 state law requires water fluoridation in communities of at least 10,000 water connections if funds are available. Redding has about 85,000 residents (Gurnon, Los Angeles Times, 11/4).
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