Despite significant health risks, the United States has been adding fluoride to its drinking water since 1945 in an attempt to combat tooth decay. A new study from the Keck School of Medicine of USC reveals that fluoride exposure during pregnancy may harm fetal brain development, raising serious concerns about its safety. 

Researchers analyzed data from more than 220 mother-child pairs and found that higher fluoride levels during pregnancy were linked to increased neurobehavioral issues in children. These findings, published in JAMA Network Open, suggest that even low levels of fluoride can negatively impact developing brains, prompting calls for a reevaluation of current public health policies. 

With no known benefits to the fetus, the potential risks demand immediate attention and further research to protect future generations.