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Fluoride 1995 28(4): 189-192

Effect of Fluoride Exposure on Intelligence in Children

X S Li, JL Zhi, Gao RO

Guizhou Provincial Sanitary and Anti-Epidemic Station. Guiyang City. 550001. China

The intelligence was measured of 907 children aged 8-13 years living in areas which differed in the amount of fluoride present in the environment. The Intelligence Quotient (IQ) of children living in areas with a medium or severe prevalence of fluorosis was lower than that of children living in areas with only slight fluorosis or no fluorosis. The development of intelligence appeared to be adversely affected by fluoride in the areas with a medium or severe prevalence of fluorosis. A high fluoride intake was associated with a lower intelligence. No correlation was found between age and intelligence in the areas with a medium and severe prevalence of fluorosis. The effect of exposure to a high level of fluoride on intelligence may occur at an early stage of development of the embryo and infant when the differentation of brain nerve cells is occurring and development is most rapid.

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