Water fluoridation reduces risk of osteoporotic fractures

Several ecological studies have found higher rates of hip fracture in communities with fluoridated water. Such studies, however, have design flaws, and a prospective study was needed to evaluate the impact of fluoridation on fracture rates. Given our widespread exposure to fluoridation, the impact of fluoride on fracture rates is an important public health issue. Phipps et al (p 860) compared bone mineral density and incident fracture rates for 2563 women with no exposure to fluoridation and 3218 women with continuous exposure. Women with continuous exposure had higher bone mineral density at the lumbar spine and hip and a slightly reduced risk of hip and vertebral fractures. This study supports the safety of fluoridation as a public health measure for the prevention of dental caries.

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Relevant Article

Community water fluoridation, bone mineral density, and fractures: prospective study of effects in older women

Kathy R Phipps, Eric S Orwoll, Jill D Mason, and Jane A Cauley
BMJ 2000 321: 860-864. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]