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Overview
Recent media reports, including a July 22, 2005 article in the Wall Street Journal,1 have cited an unpublished thesis by a Harvard doctoral student researcher, which reportedly suggests a link between fluoridated water and the development of osteosarcoma (a rare type of bone cancer) in adolescent males.
To help dentists respond to patient inquiries, the ADA developed a statement on water fluoridation and bone cancer and talking points  to address recent news reports on this topic.
Based on the substantial body of peer-reviewed evidence, the ADA supports water fluoridation as a safe and effective means of preventing tooth decay. According to generally accepted scientific knowledge, there is no association between cancer rates in humans and optimal levels of fluoride in drinking water. The ADA will continue to monitor this development closely and, if necessary, will advise the public and the dental profession of any steps that we believe are needed to ensure the public’s safety.
Footnote
1 Begley S. Fluoridation, Cancer: Did Researchers Ask The Right Questions? Wall Street Journal. July 22, 2005: B1
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A–Z Topic: Fluoride and Fluoridation
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Science in the News is a service by the American Dental Association (ADA) to present current information about science topics in the news. The ADA is a professional association of dentists committed to the public's oral health, ethics, science and professional advancement; leading a unified profession through initiatives in advocacy, education, research and the development of standards. As a science-based organization, the ADA's evaluation of the scientific evidence may change as more information becomes available. Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated.
Document Posted August 2005
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