PUBLIC-HEALTH ROLE, ALUMINUM AND ALZHEIMERS-DISEASE

The recent literature has given considerable attention to the role of aluminium (Al) in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and to the possible etiological link of ingestion of aluminium from public drinking water supplies. Principles on prevention espoused by public health oblige it to define its role in modifying exposure to aluminium if such exposure is considered a significant risk factor in the causation of AD. Some researchers recommend public education about the suspected link between aluminium and AD, the labelling of food and other products for human use with the content of aluminium, and the reduction of aluminium in alum-treated drinking water to less than 100 mu g/l. Implementation of these recommendations could require significant changes in public health policy and in individual behaviour. AD is an important health problem. Any reasonable and practical measures which would prevent AD are worthy of public policy support. However, public health policy should be based on scientific information and not on speculation.