Fluoride Quietly Removed From Birmingham Water Years Ago, Officials Face Backlash
The city of Birmingham, Alabama, has been without fluoride in its drinking water for years, despite residents only recently being informed of the change. The removal of fluoride from the water supply has sparked concerns among health experts, who warn that it could lead to an increase in cavities, particularly among children.
Birmingham, Alabama, residents were recently informed that their drinking water would no longer contain fluoride. However, it was revealed that fluoride had already been removed from some treatment plants as early as 2023, and a third plant stopped in March 2024. The change was made due to costs and old infrastructure, with repairs estimated to cost over $3.7 million. Fluoride has been added to public water for decades to help prevent cavities. About 72% of people served by public water systems in the U.S. receive fluoridated water. Experts warn that removing fluoride can have real health effects, particularly for children. The city's mayor has criticized the lack of communication regarding the change.
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