Iodine Deficiency

About Iodine

• Iodine is a non-metallic, lustrous, solid element & is the least reactive halogen.
• Iodine is an essential nutrient for the human body, especially for the brain, nervous system, and thyroid gland.
• It is a component of thyroxine, a hormone that controls the body’s rate of development.
• WHO recommends a daily intake of 150 micrograms of iodine for adults and higher amounts for pregnant and lactating women.
• Sources: Seafood, eggs, iodized salt, milk and milk products
• Other Uses of Iodine:
  • Antiseptic: Iodine solutions are used for disinfecting wounds and surgical sites.
  • Imaging: Radioactive iodine is used in medical imaging and treatments for thyroid disorders.
  • Fertiliser Production: To enhance plant growth and health.
  • Iodine-131 is a radioactive isotope that can be used in radiation therapy and as a tracer.

Health Effects of Iodine Deficiency

• Goitre: Enlargement of the thyroid gland due to insufficient hormone production.
• Hypothyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland can’t make enough thyroid hormones.
• Mental and neuromotor retardation: Iodine deficiency can cause cognitive impairments and mental disabilities, especially in children born to mothers who were iodine deficient during pregnancy or while nursing.
• Thyroid or other cancers: Chronic iodine deficiency increases the risk of thyroid cancer.

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