Dimapur, October 21 (MExN): Dimapur District observed Global Iodine Deficiency Disorder Prevention Day across the district on October 21.
Dr Antoly Suu, Dy CMO as resource person sensitized on the importance of iodine in our diet. She stated that an adult person requires only 150 micrograms of iodine, however small the quantity may be it is essential for normal growth, development and functioning of both the brain and the body. More importantly, without enough iodine, a newborn’s brain and body can become permanently retarded and stunted. Iodine is added to salt since we all use salt in our daily diet irrespective of religion, caste or economic status. Thus, it is important to consume only iodized salt. She further sensitized on the importance of the correct way to store iodize salt at home.
She further stated that sale of non-iodized salt for human consumption is a punishable offence and the department takes stern measures to enforce the law. Traders must label non-iodized salt for animals and farms as “Not for human consumption”.
Dr Mereninla Senlem, CMO Dimapur also urged the participants to consume only iodized salt and to spread the information to their families, friends and neighbors. The participants also pledged to consume only iodized salt.
A press release from the District Programme Management Unit (DPMU) Dimapur stated that Global IDD Day was observed in all health units and villages. ASHAs in the villages demonstrated how to test if their salt contains iodine. It will be a week-long observation and traders and store keepers of iodized salt will also be sensitized.
