Pharmacists have refuted claims made by a prominent pastor that fluorides in food, toothpaste, and pharmaceuticals are harmful and carcinogenic. While they recognized the pastor’s spiritual influence, members of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria clarified that, when used in approved amounts, fluoride is safe and beneficial for public health. Their intervention followed a series of viral videos in which the pastor criticized the pharmaceutical industry for using fluoride in consumer products.
In a statement by National Chairman Ambrose Ezeh and Secretary Omokhafe Ashore, the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) addressed the pastor’s claims about fluorides. They emphasized that they do not intend to undermine his spiritual authority but felt it necessary to provide scientific clarification. The ACPN stated that the pastor’s views on fluorides do not fully align with established scientific facts. They highlighted that fluorides, when used in approved amounts by the appropriate regulatory agencies, are considered safe for public health.
The ACPN acknowledged that while some studies have linked fluoride to certain cancers, these cases typically involve excessive amounts exceeding approved limits. They clarified that fluoride use at levels not exceeding 5 mg/kg is considered safe. Emphasizing the benefits of fluoride for oral health, the ACPN noted that it strengthens tooth enamel and prevents decay when included in toothpaste within approved quantities, making it both safe and effective.
The ACPN explained that negative effects such as dental fluorosis, skeletal fluorosis, and thyroid issues occur only from prolonged excessive misuse of toothpaste. They addressed concerns about fluoride in dairy and non-dairy milk, noting that while cow’s milk is usually fluoride-free, some plant-based milks may contain it as a preservative or natural component. However, they emphasized that risk only arises from excessive fluoride addition.
The ACPN highlighted a key principle of pharmacology: no drug is safe unless taken in the correct quantities over time, stating that all drugs can be harmful depending on their use. They also pointed out that fluorides naturally occur in water, soil, salmon, some fruits, and even breast milk. Overall, the ACPN affirmed that fluorides are generally regarded as safe for human consumption from a scientific standpoint.
The ACPN reported that the recommended daily fluoride intake for adults is 3.7 to 4.5 mg, while children should receive 0.7 to 1.3 mg. This dosage difference is why toothpaste is formulated for specific age groups. They emphasized the importance of careful fluoride use, especially for children, urging consumers to ensure that toothpaste is not swallowed and to monitor overall fluoride intake from all sources.
The ACPN called for continued research into fluoride’s role in oral care and the possibility of alternative compounds that could provide similar benefits without the risks associated with fluoride overdose. They highlighted that currently, there is no credible evidence linking fluoride-containing toothpaste or milk to cancer, with some reputable cancer organizations debunking such claims.
Finally, the ACPN urged non-experts to refrain from making public health claims regarding fluoride, as misinformation could have detrimental effects on consumers’ health in Nigeria.