The solution to overcome iodine deficiency is relatively simple.
A teaspoon of iodine is all a person requires in a lifetime, but because iodine cannot be stored for long periods by the body, tiny amounts are needed regularly. In areas of endemic iodine deficiency, where soil and therefore crops and grazing animals do not provide sufficient dietary iodine to the populace, food fortification and supplementation have proven highly successful and sustainable interventions. Iodized salt programs and iodized oil supplements are the most common tools in the fight against IDD.
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Iodized salt, first choice for intervention
Salt is universally and regularly consumed
Salt costs only US $0.04 per person annually
Manufactured with simple technology -
Iodized oil, practical supplementation
Effective intervention for people at risk
Easy to administer -
Social mobilization, resources already available
Existing programmes have proven success
Videos, manuals and periodicals target policy makers, health professionals and the public -
Research, multidisciplinary approach
A large body of existing clinical, experimental and epidemiological studies can be applied
Methods are proven and practical
Learn what is being done to protect children against IDD through fortifying salt, the potential problems of fortifying other foods, the crucial role of national coalitions in creating sustainable iodine sufficiency and what is being done around the world to overcome the tragedy of IDD. Building networks of partners is the key to overcoming IDD. The Network for the Sustained Elimination of Iodine Deficiency maintains a good list to help identify potential partners.
