Fluoride is a chemical often added to public water supplies with the intention of reducing tooth decay. However, a growing number of professionals and citizens are expressing concerns about the potential risks of water fluoridation and advocating for its removal from our drinking water. We are calling on the Chambersburg borough officials to halt the addition of fluoride to our water supply to protect our community's health.

Studies have raised concerns about the adverse health effects of fluoride consumption. Excessive intake of fluoride has been linked to dental fluorosis, a condition causing discoloration and damage to teeth, as well as skeletal fluorosis, which results in severe pain and damage to bones and joints. A 2015 study published in the "Environmental Health Perspectives" journal found that high levels of fluoride exposure could lower IQ levels in children. These findings highlight the urgent need to re-evaluate the safety and necessity of water fluoridation.

Many countries worldwide have stopped water fluoridation due to these health concerns. For instance, over 97% of Western Europe no longer fluoridates their water, relying instead on topical fluoride treatments like toothpaste, which are considered safer and equally effective. Moreover, the assumption that fluoride in drinking water significantly reduces tooth decay is challenged by data from World Health Organization showing no significant difference in tooth decay between countries that fluoridate their water and those that do not.

The people of Chambersburg deserve a choice in this crucial health matter. Safe, clean drinking water is a fundamental right, and the decision to medicate our water supply with fluoride should not be made without thorough public consultation and informed consent. We believe that the use of fluoride should be a personal choice and not imposed on us through our water supply.

We urge everyone who values their health and the health of their community to support this petition for ending fluoride addition to the Chambersburg borough water supply. Let's work together to ensure our water is safe and clean for ourselves and future generations. Sign this petition to demand action and protect our community's health.