In all, our rat data seem to fit a consistent picture. Information linking fluoride and CNS dysfunction continues in 1998. This finding matched results just completed in a study of children receiving steroids as a part of their treatment for childhood leukemia. Dexamethasone, compared to prednisolone, further reduced IQ, specifically impairing reading comprehension, arithmetic calculation and short-term working memory. Exposure to fluoride goes well beyond that in our drinking water, toothpastes and mouth rinses.
Fluoridation of water dictates that it is in food and processed beverages.
Pesticides such as cryolite also increase fluoride content of foods. The trend toward fluorinating pharmaceuticals increases fluoride exposure via medication. Fluoride, in various compounds, plays a heavy role in occupational exposures and for people living in close proximity to industry, i.e., aluminum, steel, brick, glass, petroleum, etc. With exposure so common, we can no longer afford to ignore potential CNS consequences of fluoride.