October 2025

 

Pursuant to my last article a very rational approach has appeared in the July ’25 issue of PEDIATRICS. Lao-Tzu Allan-Blitz, MD, MPH, et al addressed the issue of fluoridation in drinking water with a rational peer reviewed article entitled “Fluoride in Drinking Water”.

 

Their conclusion is best stated at the end of the article.

 

“The benefits afforded by adding fluoride to drinking water in the early part of the 20th century are unequivocal. However, such benefits are likely far less today than they once were. Furthermore, we are now seeing mounting evidence of harm. Considering such uncertainty, and in accordance with the precautionary principal, those factors together warrant further research into the issue of fluoride safety and a critical rethinking of our public health strategy to prevent adverse dental health outcomes.”

 

I commend the authors on recommending further research before making a final decision.

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Since we live in the cyber world I came across an article that will not only inform our readers but will save them money. Molly Hales, MD, PhD et al printed a peer reviewed article that concluded–

 

“Skin care regimens on TikTok are costly, infrequently include sunscreen, and often involve exposure to ingredients that carry a risk of irritation, allergic contact dermatitis, and sun sensitivity. They offer little to no benefit for the pediatric populations they are targeting.”

 

You will notice I use the term “peer review” frequently.

 

It means the article has been reviewed by experts in the field for its veracity and proper use of statistics to arrive at their conclusion. The internet is filled with statements that are hardy peer reviewed but opinions of pseudo experts or influencers. Beware of these two sources of concepts that are not based on solid statistics or honest research.

 

Protect you children with facts, not whims.