Does Fluoride Exposure Lower Children's IQ?

Water fluoridation has been an example of one of the great public health successes, credited with substantially reducing tooth decay. Water fluoridation was based upon the discovery in the 1930s by a dentist, H. Trendley Dean DDS, that 1 mg/L of fluoride in drinking water protects against dental caries while causing minimal dental fluorosis. In the 1950s, community water fluoridation was promoted as safe and effective in the fight against dental caries. Since the 1970s, the rates of tooth decay have plummeted in the U.S and other countries. A 2015 Cochrane review found that community water fluoridation was associated with a 25% relative reduction in dental caries in children. Recently, however, U.S politicians have questioned whether community water systems should remove fluoride as a public health measure.

A newly published study by Taylor et al. (JAMA Pediatrics, published online Jan. 6, 2024, doi : 10.1001) questions whether high fluoride exposure is linked to a lower IQ in children. This meta-analysis combined data from 10 countries consisting of 74 different studies, 45 of which were from China. These observational studies were of varied quality and used different measures of fluoride exposure, including either drinking water samples, urine fluoride measures, or both. For comparison purposes, the EPA’s maximum allowable level is 4 mg/L for water fluoride, and the World Health Organization and many countries recommend 1.5 mg/L. More than 200 million people in the U.S. are exposed to about 0.7 mg/L from a public water system although private wells may have higher levels…

Continue reading . . .

Renee Wachtel MD, FAAP

Chair, School Health and Behavioral & Developmental Committee, AAPCA1

When is the Best Time to Consider Donating Breast Milk?

It is never too late or too early to start planning to become a milk donor. The earlier you indicate your interest in starting the process, the more efficiently Mothers’ Milk Bank can aid you in the steps along the way. Many potential donors include mothers who are freeing up freezer space, transitioning their baby to solid foods, or simply finding they consistently express more milk than their baby requires. For mothers who have an oversupply or produce more milk than their baby needs, donating milk becomes a meaningful act of compassion and kindness. One practical way to start is by building a personal milk reserve and considering donations for the surplus. Milk donation can be a safe and thoughtful way to help other families while continuing to meet your baby’s needs.

Health Benefits for Mothers

Donating milk benefits not only the receiving babies but also the mothers who donate. Regular milk expression helps reduce the risk of breast engorgement and mastitis. Over time, it may also lower the risk of breast and ovarian cancers. For many mothers, milk donation is a fulfilling experience that combines physical benefits with the joy of helping others. Together, we can ensure every baby has the nourishment they need to thrive while empowering mothers to share their incredible gift of milk.

A Simple, Compassionate Process

Becoming a milk donor is a straightforward and supportive process. After completing a quick screening with the milk bank, a cooler for storing and shipping milk is delivered to the donor’s home within one to three days. Mothers’ Milk Bank California covers all the costs associated with donating milk, ensuring that the process is convenient and stress-free for busy mothers who want to give back. For mothers who have experienced the loss of an infant, donation can also offer a meaningful way to honor their child’s memory. Mothers’ Milk Bank California provides a bereavement program that supports families through this compassionate choice.

A Community Effort

Encouraging more mothers to consider milk donation can make a profound difference for vulnerable infants. Whether you’re a friend, family member, or healthcare provider, you can help raise awareness about how donor milk saves lives. If you or someone you know might be interested in donating breast milk, contact Mothers’ Milk Bank California at (408) 998-4550 or at info@MothersMilk.org.

Rachel Land MD, FAAP

Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine

President's Column

To the wonderful and inspiring pediatric advocates in our chapter, I want to take a moment to acknowledge your vital work, in clinic rooms and hospitals, community centers, schools, churches, and everywhere in between. Regardless of the circumstances, regardless of the need, you consistently show up for kids, advocating for science, advocating for what’s right.

Often, including right now, the sheer magnitude of the need for advocacy can be overwhelming. There are so many aspects of child health warranting our urgent attention. When we feel overwhelmed, it’s hard to see a path forward. For any of you feeling this way, I want you to take a deep breath, to remind yourself that you are an amazing and learned expert in child health, pick the one or two things about which you have the greatest expertise, bandwidth or passion, and give yourself permission to let your colleagues tackle some of the other issues.

Our AAP leadership in CA recently had the privilege of meeting with AAP CEO Mark Del Monte, and he shared some of the Academy’s strategy for ongoing child health advocacy during these times. He also shared that supporting our members’ wellness so that they are able to keep doing that work is a key priority for the Academy. We will share resources—for advocacy and wellness—with you as they become available.

One key resource is the AAP Advocacy Action Center, which you can access here with your AAP login. It will direct you to your Federal elected representatives and simplify the process of contacting them. You can also sign up for AAP Advocacy Alerts by joining the list serv here (scroll to bottom of page and enter login credentials). Another excellent resource specifically pertaining to childhood immunization and how to talk to parents and the public about it in the current climate is the AAP’s Immunization resource page including an interactive vaccination map, which provides a wealth of current, state-specific data regarding immunization.

I also want to draw your attention to key statements from the Academy, including its response to multiple Executive Orders impacting immigrant children and families, which you can read here, as well as the announcement regarding the withdrawal of the US from the World Health Organization here. We encourage you to reference these, and the Academy policy they cite, in your discussions and advocacy efforts.

In closing, I want to acknowledge that it’s ok to feel overwhelmed. We are in an increasingly grueling marathon, and we need to pause, to walk sometimes, maybe even to step away to fill our own tanks, before moving forward. Celebrate the victories when and where they come, keep building your coalitions, mourn the setbacks, and remind yourself that every action you take, every day, for child health, is part of a vast and rich tapestry and it needs your contributions.

I know together we will forge a path forward for kids that is rooted in equity, science, and justice.

In solidarity and respect,

Nikki

Nikki Webb, MD, FAAP

President, AAPCA1

AAPCA1 President Dr. Webb and Vice President Dr. Patel attended the AAP-Advocacy Day in 2024 and this event was dedicated to pediatric residents advocating for legislative measures supporting child health, under the guidance of faculty mentors.

Readers Tip!

Checkout the resource section to learn more about Pediatrics On Call: A Podcast on Children's Health from the AAP!

The following are just a few of the key bills of interest to AAP-CA (our California AAP District advocacy group). Visit the AAP-CA website’s Advocacy page at https://aap-ca.org/legislative-bills/ to see the entire list of AAP-CA tracked bills that made it to the Governor’s desk where you can read the outcome of each bill and an in-depth analysis. AAPCA1 has recently supported several significant advocacy efforts.

If you are interested in knowing more about certain legislation, reach out to our State Government Affairs Chapter Representative Anna Kaplan, MD, FAAP, and Nora Pfaff, MD, FAAP at info@aapca1.org.

AAP-CA Bill Tracker

Chapter Events

Committee Meeting: Climate Change and Child Health Committee Meeting

We would like to invite you to join our next (virtual) Climate Change and Child Health Committee meeting on Thursday, Feb. 6, from noon to 1 p.m.

In this meeting, we will outline our goals for 2025, review the projects we have underway, and share opportunities for you -- our committee members -- to get involved. We'd love to hear your feedback and ideas, and we hope you'll join us!

Date: Thursday, Feb. 6

Time: Noon–1 p.m. PDT

Location: via Zoom

Event Page

Chapter Chat: The Current Landscape for Children's Health in 2025

AAPCA1's Advocacy Committee would like to invite you to join our next (virtual) Chapter Chat on the Current Landscape for Children's Health on Tuesday, Feb. 18. from 7 to 8 p.m.

Join us for an insightful presentation on the evolving landscape of children's health in 2025. Mike Odeh, Senior Director of Health at Children Now, will share expert perspectives on emerging challenges, and opportunities that will shape children's health policy and outcomes in the coming years.

Date: Tuesday, Feb. 18

Time: 7 - 8 p.m. PDT

Location: via Zoom

Event Page

Committee Meeting: Developmental and Behavioral Committee Meeting

AAPCA1 is inviting you to participate in the Developmental and Behavior Committee Meeting that will be held virtually on Wednesday, Feb. 26 from 7 to 8 p.m. PDT. Join us for an important discussion on developmental, behavioral, and school health topics.

Date: Wednesday, Feb. 26

Time: 7 - 8 p.m. PDT

Location: via Zoom

Event Page

Save a life: Suicide Prevention Virtual Summit

We would like to invite you to join our upcoming Suicide Prevention Summit on Saturday, Mar. 29, from 8 a.m. to noon PST! This summit will focus on actionable strategies to prevent youth suicide, enhance mental health resources, and connect attendees with leading experts in the field. Your insights and participation are invaluable, and we hope you’ll join us for this important and impactful event!

Date: Saturday, Mar. 29

Time: 8 to noon PDT

Location: via Zoom

Event Page

Add to Calendar!

Chapter Leadership Positions

Seeking Volunteer Monterey Bay Area Director Applications!

As an Area Director, you'll be part of a dynamic team representing one of our 11 diverse geographic areas. You'll become a voting member of our chapter board and engage with local pediatric providers to advocate for children's health through the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Volunteer alongside a supportive leadership team dedicated to shaping the future of pediatric care.

Apply Here

Role Description

Seeking Volunteer CATCH Facilitator Applications!

The AAP Community Access to Child Health (CATCH) Program is seeking applicants for the volunteer position of Chapter CATCH Facilitator (CCF). CCFs are appointed by their state Chapter to serve a renewable three-year term. CATCH’s mission is to support pediatricians to collaborate within their communities to advance the health of all children. Our vision is that every child in every community reach optimal health and well-being.

To apply send CV to info@aapca1.org.

Role Description

Chapter Care & Connect Microgrants

Apply for the Care & Connect Microgrant for Up to $2,000!

AAPCA1 is excited to offer its members the opportunity to apply for a chapter microgrant. The Care & Connect Microgrant Project, offers microgrants valued at up to $2,000 (no amount is too small) which can be utilized in one of two impactful ways. The first option supports innovative community-based child health initiatives. The second option is to host member gatherings and meetings within your local area.

Along with the grant, you will have the full support of our AAPCA1 staff to carry out your grant goals. We encourage all members to take advantage of this chance to either drive community health improvements or enhance pediatric connections!

Learn More

Apply Here

ACES Health Champion Gathering!

Join this free virtual gathering to discuss youth with problematic sexual behavior on sex offender registries and the analysis of the risk or benefit. Don't forget to sign up and join the ACES Health Champions by Thursday, Feb. 20!

Location: Virtual

Date: Thursday, Feb. 20

Time: noon - 01:00 p.m. PST

2025 Bay Area Autism Consortium Annual Research Symposium!

Join us on Friday, Feb. 28 at Stanford Research Park for the 2025 BAAC Annual Research Symposium. This year's theme is "Building Bridges To achieve Personalized Supports in Autism." Our symposium will be a full day of autism research presentations, faculty panels, facilitated discussions, poster sessions, and more! Please see the schedule below for detailed programming. Lunch and refreshments will be provided. Researchers, clinicians, educators, students, and community members are all welcome!

CME Credit is available. This webinar will be recorded. CME credit will only be provided to individuals who attend the live webinar event.

Date: Friday, Feb. 28

Time: 8 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. PST

Location: 1070 Arastradero Rd, Palo Alto

The Social Drivers of Health: Gaps and Opportunities in Pediatrics

Join us on Saturday, Mar. 8, at the UCI Sue Gross Auditorium for a half-day conference exploring the critical role of social drivers in child health. This event will highlight the impact of social determinants at individual, family, and community levels, as well as strategies for pediatricians and healthcare providers to connect families with essential resources, including Medi-Cal programs (CalAIM, ECM), housing support, food assistance, and more.

This conference offers CME & MOC-2 credit, and successful participation may earn up to 3.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Breakfast and lunch will be provided.

Date:Saturday, Mar. 8

Time: 7:30 a.m. - 01:00 p.m. PST

Location: 854 Health Sciences Rd, Irvine, CA 92617

Ticket Pricing:

AAP-OC Chapter Member Physicians: $10

Non-Member Physicians: $75

Allied Health Professionals: $50

Residents, Trainees, & Students: Free

Community Members: $25

Empowering Tomorrow: Transforming Pediatric Care for Equitable Futures

Join this half-day virtual symposium to learn tools and strategies for clinical practice to improve healthcare disparities. Hear from practicing clinicians in busy pediatric clinics with diverse patients sharing best practices and recommendations for addressing health inequities. Attendees may receive 3.5 hours of CME.

REGISTRATION: Register by email to HHS-LEADERSHIPPOWER@hhs.sccgov.org.

Please include your name, degree, position/institutional affiliation and contact information. Registration confirmation will include login information to attend the conference.

Cost: Free!

Location: Virtual

Date: Friday, Mar. 21

Time: 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. PST

If you would like to support Pedi POWER (Pediatricians Organizing and Working to End Racism) and its efforts to promote equity, please consider making a voluntary contribution through the Valley Health Foundation.

Our EDI champion Dr. Amna Khan is leading one of the lectures and co-leads this health equity working group, Pedi POWER!

Learn More

Pediatric Careers in California!

Explore our job board for exciting career opportunities or share one of your own. Visit aapca1.org/jobs/.

Full-time Pediatrician for Northern Inyo Healthcare District- Bishop, CA

Chapter Members: Enjoy a discounted rate of $50 for a 90-day job posting and promotion.
Non-Members/Corporate Entities: Post for 30 days at $100.

Take the next step in your pediatric career today!

Job Board

Resources

Cal-MAP: Mental Health Support Resources

Cal-MAP’s team of mental health specialists supports primary care providers (PCPs) treating youth with mental health needs through education, consultation, and resource navigation.

Phone:

800-253-2103

Email: info@cal-map.org

Request a Consultation

Pediatrics on Call: A Podcast on Children's Health from the AAP

Podcasts:

Pathways to Pediatrics with AAP President Dr. Sue Kressly

Preventing Maltreatment of Children, Treating ADHD in the Medical Home

Recommended by AAP on Pediatrics on Call

Support Resources for Families of Gender Diverse Youth

There are several national and international organizations that support families with gender diverse children, as well as excellent books. Many parents and siblings also find it helpful to meet with a mental health care professional or other families in a support group setting...

Resources:

The Human Rights Campaign

National Center for Transgender Equality

Trans Youth Equality Foundation

Learn More

FDA Revokes Use of Red Dye Found in Candy, Medicine and more

The FDA’s action Wednesday was prompted by a 2002 petition to revoke the red dye that was endorsed by more than 20 organizations including the Center for Environmental Health, the Center for Food Safety, Breast Cancer Prevention Partners and the Children’s Advocacy Institute....

Learn More

Autism: Should My Child Take Medicine for Challenging Behavior? - A Decision Aid for Parents

A decision aid can help parents work with their child’s health care provider when making important medical decisions. There is not always one “right” choice. The decision aid can help parents understand the possible risks and benefits of different treatment.

Pediatricians can share this decision aid document with parents during or after visits. Access it here:

Decision Aid

SCMF: Physician Wellness Program Resources

Sierra Community Medical Foundation (SCMF) provides physician members and non-members with the opportunity to meet in a group atmosphere with their colleagues to discuss day to day challenges and participate in activities such as baking, painting, hiking, music performances, regional outings and much more. Our Peer Groups are facilitated by mental health professionals and are held at the homes of local physicians, or virtually, on a monthly basis.

Learn More

Add our social media accounts to get the latest chapter updates!

Twitter: @AAPCA1

Instagram: @AAPCA1

Facebook: California Chapter 1, American Academy of Pediatrics

Linkedin: American Academy of Pediatrics, California Chapter 1

Website: https://aapca1.org/

Your membership makes a difference for children in California, thank you!

The AAPCA1's ability to advocate on behalf of children is only as strong as the support we receive from our members. Encourage your colleagues to join today by visiting the AAPCA1 website.

Our mission is to promote the optimal health and development of children and

adolescents of Northern California in partnership with their families and communities, and to support the pediatricians who care for them.

Executive Committee:

President: Nicole Webb • Vice President: Neel Patel

• Secretary: Resham Kaur • Treasurer: Amita Saxena • Past President: Nelson Branco

Area Directors:

North Valley: Aishwarya Taneja • Sacramento Valley: Lena van der List • Central Valley: Deborah Shassetz • South Valley: Sireesha Palkamsetti • San Francisco: Ryan Alanzalon • Santa Clara: Bindya Singh • San Mateo: Jonathon Everett • North Coastal: Jeffrey Ribordy • Monterey Bay: VACANT • Alameda County: Renee Wachtel • Contra Costa/Solano: Jennifer Anne Miller

Pediatric Insider News Editors:

Christy Capestany • Nicole Anderson

Staff:

Executive Director: Yolanda Ruiz • Project Coordinator: Sana Sayyid •

Marketing Assistant: Arathzy Portillo