Nutrient-poor Soils result in Iodine Deficiency

1. Some Nutrient-poor Soilsresult in Iodine Deficiency

2. What is iodine? Iodine is a mineral naturally formed in soil. It is an essential (necessary) element for thyroid function: * normal growth and development of the body * development and functioning of the brain * converts food to energy * maintains body temperature http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iodine-HealthProfessional/#h6

3. What are the effects of iodine deficiency? After many months without iodine, a person may develop: * a goiter an unsightly swelling of the thyroid gland in front of the neck * hypothyroidism * retardation * increases the risk of still birth and infant deaths.

4. Who’s at risk? Historically, iodine deficiency was endemic (common) in mountainous regions of the United States and Mexico, and in the so called "goiter belt" around the Great Lakes. After the early 1990’s the U.S. is fine due to the production of

5. What about every where else? What about globally? Worldwide iodine deficiency remains a public health problem in 47 countries, and about 2.2 billion people (38% of the world’s population) live in areas with iodine deficiency

6. People living in regions with iodine-deficient soils. Mountainous areas, such as the Himalayas, Alps, and Andes regions, and river valleys prone to flooding, especially in South and Southeast Asia, are among the most iodine-deficient regions in the world.

7. What’s the solution? Prevention: Iodized salt or food are brought in from outside. Some effects are irreversible (can’t be undone). Surgery to remove the goiters. Dr. Shatul Parikh One of the hundreds of doctors from Marietta who donate two weeks a year performing surgery.