On March 22, 2006, the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) released a report that examined the effects of high levels of fluoride. The NAS report concludes that the US EPA's current standard of 4.0 parts per million, which is designed to limit high levels of natural fluoride in some ground water sources, is not protective enough. The NAS report did not call for any changes in the use of fluoride as a water additive to prevent dental cavities.

MWRA has fluoridated its drinking water for over 20 years. MWRA maintains a target fluoride level of 1.0 parts per million, as recommended by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, the American Dental Association and the international World Health Organization.

The MWRA has reviewed the NAS report and will follow any changes in drinking water standards that the U.S. EPA and CDC propose.

MWRA is aware that a number of people across the country have raised questions about fluoride in drinking water. MWRA continues to keep an open-minded view on fluoride, and will pay close attention to competing viewpoints. It is doubtful that MWRA's position will change unless the Centers for Disease Control, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and other responsible health organizations end their support of fluoridation and its benefits.