
Every year, on October 21st, the world comes together to raise awareness about one of the most significant yet preventable public health issues: iodine deficiency. Global Iodine Deficiency Disorders ODD) Day shines a spotlight on the impact of inadequate iodine intake, a leading cause of preventable intellectual disabilities and other serious health problems.
IDD's is a major public health problem worldwide. It is confirmed that one out of every five people in India lies in IDD endemic areas and estimated that 1.5 billion people in the world and over 200 million people are at risk of getting IDDs. India alone has more than 71 million people suffering from goitre and other IDDs.
Nagaland was declared as one of the IDD endemic States in India through a base line survey conducted by ICWIR In early 1960'5 where 34.3% of goitre prevalence was recorded.
Nagaland IDD Cell was established in 1987, since then, control, promotive and preventive measures were adopted through the programme division.
Nagaland has the lowest goitre/thyroid disorder among 1, 00,000 women in the country 505/1, 00,000 (NC HS-4)
The state ranks 6' in the country in total household consumption of iodized salt at 99%, 99.3%: Urban, 98 8%: Rural (NFHS-5)
The Importance of Iodine
Iodine is an essential micronutrient required for the production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, brain development, and overall growth. While small amounts of iodine are found in foods like seafood, dairy products, and certain plants, many people worldwide still do not get enough iodine through their diet.
Health Consequences of Iodine Deficiency
Iodine deficiency can have devastating effects, particularly on pregnant women, new born, and young children. The most severe consequences include:
Cretinism: A condition characterized by stunted physical and mental growth in children.
Goitre: Enlargement of the thyroid gland, which can lead to difficulty in breathing or swallowing. Intellectual Disabilities: Iodine deficiency during pregnancy can severely affect brain development in the fetus, leading to cognitive impairments. In adults, insufficient iodine can lead to hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland fails to produce enough hormones, resulting in fatigue, weight gain, and mood changes
Global Progress and Challenges
Over the past few decades, significant strides have been made in combating Iodine deficiency, primarily through universal salt iodization programs. These initiatives have successfully reduced the global burden of IDD in many countries in fact, 120 countries now have laws mandating Iodized salt in their markets.
Despite these advances, challenges remain. In certain regions, such as parts of Africa, Southeast Asia, and Europe, Iodine deficiency persists due to limited access to iodized salt, lack of awareness, and inconsistent policy enforcement. Additionally, as processed foods become more prevalent, there is concern that the iodine content in diets may decline since many processed foods do not contain iodized salt.
The Role of iodized Salt
Iodized salt is considered one of the most cost-effective and efficient ways to prevent IDD, By adding small amounts of iodine to table salt, governments and health organizations have ensured that populations receive the necessary iodine levels in their daily diets.
“Iodine Increases intelligence of offspring” - Dr Melina Roberts.
Issued by Directorate of Health and Family Welfare IDD Cell, Nagaland: Kohima