Iodine is a crucial vitamin required for normal bodily growth and mental function, as well as a vital element for human existence. Consequently, Iodine Deficiency Disorder (IDD) has been acknowledged worldwide as a significant threat.
It is estimated that over 200 million Americans are at risk for iodine deficiency disorders, while over 71 million suffer from goitre and other iodine-deficiency conditions (Government of India regulation for NIDDCP). Iodine deficiency is the primary cause of the progress of IDD, as it is a deficiency in the regular food supply.
All crops grown in iodine-deficient soils will be deficient in iodine. Due to its dependence on the geophysical features of the ground, iodine deficiency can affect both the wealthy and the disadvantaged equally. Regardless, the use of iodized salt in diet can prevent the development of IDD. After a successful experiment of iodized salt in Himachal Pradesh’s Kangara valley in 1962, the Indian government started a National Goiter Control Program that was partially funded (NGCP).
The primary focus was on the distribution of iodized salt and the identification of endemic locations. The NGCP was renamed the National Iodine Shortage Disorder Control Program (NIDDCP) in 1992 to underscore the more severe consequences of iodine deficiency.
Iodine Deficiency Disorder (IDD) Effects:
Iodine deficiency may not cause goiter, but it can cause physical and mental retardation. It affects individuals, gender equality, and varied economic conditions.
In addition, it could cause stillbirth, foetus removal, hard-of-hearing mutism, dwarfism, abortion, cretinism, goitre, neuromotor defects, etc. (Govt. of India regulation for NIDDCP).
The Project:
The National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Program (NIDDCP) is implemented to prevent, control, and eliminate these conditions, as well as to assist the states in establishing IDD Cell and IDD observing research facilities for ensuring the quality control of iodized salt and for monitoring urinary iodine discharge. In addition, the Program conducts research regarding goitre and health education activities.
Objectives of the Program: IODINE ADEQUACY DISORDER
- Survey to determine the prevalence of iodine deficiency disorders (IDDs).
- Provide iodized salt instead of regular salt
- Review the degree of Iodine Deficiency Disorders and the impact of iodized salt every five years.
- Laboratory analysis of iodized salt and iodine excretion in the urine.
Result expected from The Program:
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- 100% iodized salt usage in food.
- Reduce the incidence of Goiter and other Iodine-Deficiency Disorders.
- The monitoring of salt should be improved.
Exercises:
- Public Health Education and Promotion
- IEC via awareness of Global 100 Prevention Day on October 21.
- IEC via means of electronic media.
- IEC via Seminars on Sensitisation
- Public mindfulness camp for IDD
IDD/Goiter Analysis
The IDD/Goiter Survey study was to be conducted in 20 remaining unstudied regions in accordance with the Guidelines of the Government of India. Three Medical Colleges of the State provided support. Consequently, twenty sectors must be explored within five years.
Establishment of the IDD Monitoring Laboratory
According to Government of India Guidelines, an IDD Monitoring Laboratory is required for the analysis of Salt Samples and Urine testing.
