We gave it our best shot. The battle does not end here. San Antonio and Abilene were among more than a dozen cities and counties across the country voting on fluoridation. The American Dental Association, American Medical Association, World Health Organization and federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention endorse fluoridation. The CDC ranks it among the 20th century's top 10 public health achievements.
Opponents cite studies suggesting fluoride causes such ailments as brittle bones and cancer.
National health experts say such claims are groundless. A comprehensive review of fluoridation research published this month in the British medical Journal found no evidence of harm. Opponents have said fluoridation is little more than a disguise for dumping industrial waste into the water supply. Today, they often argue fluoridation is mass medication from an intrusive, costly government. Vote returns compiled by The Associated Press.