38 million babies face risk: 'Iodine deficiency causes brain damage'
A statement from the Kırıkkale Provincial Health Directorate noted, "The health consequences of iodine deficiency in infants and children are well known. Iodine deficiency causes brain damage and intellectual disability in infants and children."
İHA
In a statement from the Provincial Health Directorate in Kırıkkale, it was noted that October 21 is observed as "Global Iodine Deficiency Disorders Prevention Day." The statement, which provided information regarding iodine, expressed that iodine deficiency is a significant global public health issue affecting all societies.
Stating that most of the iodine in the body is located in the thyroid gland, the statement said, "The thyroid gland is located in the neck region and secretes hormones necessary for the body. Thyroid hormones play an important role in growth and development. Iodine is an essential component for thyroid hormones. Pregnant women and young children are groups at higher risk for iodine deficiency. The health consequences of iodine deficiency in infants and children are well known. Iodine deficiency causes brain damage and intellectual disability in infants and children."
ATTENTION DRAWN TO HIGH-RISK BIRTHS
The statement continued, "One of the most common and well-known clinical conditions caused by iodine deficiency is goiter. This occurs due to a disruption in the production of thyroid hormones. Furthermore, due to iodine deficiency in pregnant women, miscarriages, stillbirths, and low birth weight are seen more frequently, and a condition called 'cretinism' can be observed in the children born."
The statement reported that 18 million babies worldwide are born with intellectual disabilities due to maternal iodine deficiency, and noted that 38 million babies are facing the risk of iodine deficiency.