Iodine deficiency disorder (IDD) is a common global health issue caused by insufficient iodine intake. Iodine is an essential mineral that is crucial for the production of thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating the body's metabolism and growth, particularly in children.
When the body does not get enough iodine, the thyroid gland enlarges to try to compensate, resulting in a condition known as goiter. Goiter can cause difficulties with breathing and swallowing, as well as discomfort in the neck area.
In children, iodine deficiency can lead to a range of developmental issues, including stunted growth, mental impairment, and decreased IQ. Pregnant women who are iodine deficient are at risk of having children with congenital disabilities, such as cretinism, which can result in severe mental and physical impairment.
IDD is prevalent in areas where the soil lacks iodine and is often compounded by poor dietary practices. The most effective method for preventing IDD is to increase dietary intake of iodine through foods such as iodized salt, seafood, and dairy products. In some cases, supplements may be necessary, particularly for pregnant women and those living in areas with severe iodine deficiency.
In conclusion, IDD is a preventable health issue that can have severe consequences for physical and mental development. It is crucial to promote awareness of this disorder and take steps to ensure that individuals have access to adequate sources of dietary iodine.
3. Definition
Iodine Deficiency Disorders refer to a spectrum of health
consequences resulting from inadequate intake of iodine.
● Iodine is a micronutrient
● Necessary for functional thyroid gland
● Iodine also a trace element
4. Iodine deficiency leads
● Abortion
● Stillbirth
● Mental and physical retardation
● Deafness
These are collectively called Iodine Deficiency Disorder
(IDDs)
5. Epidemiology
Iodine deficiency (IDD) is the
single most important cause
of preventable mental
retardation.
Globally more than 2 billion
people at risk of IDD
There has been some
research on this subject in
Ethiopia.
6. Ethiopia
260 million people in Africa are at risk and
150,000 are affected by goiter.
78% of the total population of Ethiopia are
exposed to iodine deficiency.
8. Etiology and Pathogenesis
● Iodine deficiency occurs when either iodine intake is inadequate or the presence
of goitrogens (anti thyroid) in the diet is high.
● Groundwater and foods grown in these areas lack iodine.
● The resulting low level of thyroid hormones in the blood (hypothyroidism) is the
principal factor responsible for the damage done to the developing brain and the
other harmful effects known collectively as the Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDDs).
● Consequently, if severe enough, iodine deficiency will impair thyroid function,
resulting in a lower metabolic rate, growth retardation and brain damage.
● The long-term consequence is irreversible mental retardation.
10. Child and adolescent
● Goiter
● Impaired mental development and function
● Hypothyroidism
● Retarded physical development
Adult
● Hypothyroidism
● Impaired mental function
11. Most important consequences of the spectrum of IDD are:
● Goiter
● Mental retardation
● Hypothyroidism
● Cretinism
● Increased morbidity and mortality of infants and neonates
