1 Li M

Eastman CJ The changing epidemiology of iodine deficiency.

Iodine, a crucial micronutrient, is essential for thyroid hormone production and for normal in-utero neuro-development. During pregnancy, iodine intake must be increased by 50% because of physiological increases in maternal thyroid hormone production, an increase in maternal renal iodine losses, and fetal iodine needs for thyroid hormone production. Iodine deficiency affects 2 billion people worldwide and is the main cause of preventable mental impairment. Every year, 38 million newborn babies in developing countries are affected by iodine deficiency despite ongoing and concerted efforts by WHO, the UN, and the International Council for the Control of Iodine Deficiency Disorders.