Tag: Goitre

Worldwide, iodine deficiency is the most common cause of goitre, affecting an estimated 2.2 billion people. Understanding the crucial role of this trace mineral is key to preventing the thyroid enlargement, or goitre, which can lead to more serious health complications.

According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2020-2021), 94.3% of Indian households use adequately iodized salt, a massive improvement over past decades. However, the question remains: do Indians have iodine deficiency in certain regions, and what is the current picture beyond national averages?

Unlike many countries with mandated salt fortification programs, the UK has never introduced a formal policy to iodize salt. This unique public health approach stems from an "accidental" success story involving the dairy industry, which is a key reason salt is not iodized in the UK.

Worldwide, iodine deficiency affects about two billion people and is the leading preventable cause of intellectual disabilities. The widespread use of iodised salt has been a simple and cost-effective public health measure to combat this, making it a critical component for ensuring proper nutrition for many populations.

In regions of Tanzania known for endemic iodine deficiency, a study revealed high rates of goitre among populations with daily cassava consumption, indicating a significant link. The question of does cassava cause goitre is complex, hinging on the plant's natural toxicity and crucial processing methods.

Globally, iodine deficiency is the most common cause of goitre, affecting an estimated 2.2 billion people. If you have goitre, the question is, **what are you lacking if you have goitre**? The answer most often points to an inadequate intake of iodine, but the full picture of thyroid health involves more than just this one mineral.