WHO has published Feeding and Nutrition of Infants and Young Children. Guidelines for the WHO European Region, with emphasis on the former Soviet countries. The book can be viewed here or purchased from WHO sales agents . Iodine deficiency disorders . If this percentage is reduced, the mental capacity of babies born to mothers with IDD will be improved and populations may be better protected in the event of a nuclear disaster.
Iodine deficiency is the most important cause of preventable mental retardation in the world.
Its effects have a negative impact on the entire economies of affected nations. Globally at least 800 million people live in iodine-deficient environments and are affected by the disorders induced by iodine deficiency. These include endemic goitre, cretinism, mental deficiency, decreased fertility rates and increased perinatal deaths and infant overall mortality. Babies born to iodine-deficient mothers are especially at risk of mental impairment. Populations suffering from subclinical IDD will be more susceptible to radiation damage and thyroid cancer in the event of furhther Chernobyls.