Mercury Fillings may Harm Pregnant Women, FDA Says

The Food and Drug Administration said on Wednesday that mercury fillings in teeth may harm pregnant women as well as fetuses.

FDA spokeswoman Peper Long said that after settling a lawsuit involving these fillings, the FDA will alert consumers about the dangers of mercury on its website and introduce a specific guideline by next year.

"Pregnant women and persons who may have a health condition that makes them more sensitive to mercury exposure, including individuals with existing high levels of mercury bioburden, should not avoid seeking dental care, but should discuss options with their health practitioner," the agency said on its website.

the lawsuit involved several advocacy groups including Moms Against Mercury. Several groups have asked the FDA to ban mercury fillings as it has been linked to brain and kidney damage.

Source-Medindia
RAS/L