FAN Bulletin 841

July 17, 2007

Dear All,

We have just learned that one of the signers of our Professionals’ statement calling for an end to water fluoridation worldwide, has been honored. Professor Vyvyan Howard, who holds the Chair in Bio-Imaging at the University of Ulster, has been elected President of the International Society of Doctors for the Environment (ISDE). He will hold the post for the next two years (see full report below).

The ISDE represents 30,000 medical doctors around the world who are interested in the effects of pollution and the environment on health.

In his acceptance letter Dr. Howard said:

“ When I was born, there was a 1 in 4 chance of getting cancer in the UK: today it’s less than 1 in 3, while in the USA for men it’s 1 in 2. These are enormous changes; we believe that environmental pollution has a lot to do with this, particularly through its effect on the fetus and the infant.

“I’m also particularly interested in the fluoridation of water supplies. I’m against it: it’s a ridiculous idea, based on very bad science.”

If you would like to congratulate Dr. Howard on this appointment please email him at: v.howard@ulster.ac.uk.

Paul Connett
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International Honor For UU Scientist

17th July 2007

Professor Vyvyan Howard, who holds the Chair in Bio-Imaging at the University of Ulster, has been elected President of the International Society of Doctors for the Environment (ISDE). He will hold the post for the next two years.

The ISDE represents 30,000 medical doctors around the world who are interested in the effects of pollution and the environment on health.

Recognized by the World Health Organization and the UK, ISDE develops and publishes position papers on themes such as the health impacts of nuclear power and air pollutants.

Professor Howard said he was honored to be chosen as the Society’s President, and would use his time in office to highlight the way our changing environment affects health:

“Our Victorian forefathers recognized that one of the planks of therapy was to change the environment – and that isn’t much talked about these days: treatment by tablet is often preferred rather than a change of environment.

“Today, lots of doctors are realizing they’re on the front line: when you have 20% of children in your district with asthma, it’s a stark reminder that the environment we live in is responsible for a lot of our health and ill-health.”

He is especially interested in issues surrounding environmental impacts on what he called the ‘cancer epidemic’ facing the developed world.

“ When I was born, there was a 1 in 4 chance of getting cancer in the UK: today it’s less than 1 in 3, while in the USA for men it’s 1 in 2. These are enormous changes; we believe that environmental pollution has a lot to do with this, particularly through its effect on the fetus and the infant.

“I’m also particularly interested in the fluoridation of water supplies. I’m against it: it’s a ridiculous idea, based on very bad science.

“It’s going to be a very interesting job: it’s an honor to be appointed, and I’m looking forward to working with some really excellent and supportive colleagues.”

For further information, please contact:

Press Office Department of Public Affairs
Tel: 028 9036 6178
Email: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk