There is, however, a strong genetic component to several forms of Alzheimer's disease. The most widely accepted criteria for epidemiologic evaluation include strength of association, consistency, specificity, temporality, biological gradient, plausibility, and coherence. To establish causality, all of these criteria must be satisfied, in large part. In regard to aluminum and neurological effects, few of the criteria are satisfied by the available evidence. There is not sufficient consistency or accuracy to support concerns about aluminum in general or aluminum in drinking water as causal agents for Alzheimer's disease.
Evidence linking aluminum with other neurological disorders is either limited or unavailable.
Though the role of aluminum in certain neurological disorders has not been proved, research continues in an attempt to establish a possible link. The medical, academic, and drinking water communities are conducting ongoing research about the health effects of aluminum. Future research should address the extent and strength of any link, whether the contribution of aluminum in drinking water is a significant portion of the total bioavailable intake, and the possible beneficial effects of silicic acid or fluoride in reducing bioavailability. Strict regulation of aluminum is not warranted until a health link can be confirmed to the satisfaction of normal toxicological evaluation procedures used for demonstrably toxic contaminants. Practice Strict regulation of aluminum could adversely affect the ability of water utilities to deliver safe and aesthetically pleasing drinking water.