However, it is now known that iodine deficiency is the most common preventable cause of mental handicap in the world today, constituting a threat to the social and economic development of many countries of the world including some in Europe. There are effective and affordable technologies that will prevent iodine deficiency and the problems it causes. The solution is relatively simple. A teaspoon of iodine is all a person requires in a lifetime, but because iodine cannot be stored for long periods by the body, tiny amounts are needed regularly. In areas of endemic iodine deficiency, where soil and therefore crops and grazing animals do not provide sufficient dietary iodine to the populace, food fortification and supplementation have proven highly successful and sustainable interventions.
Salt is universally and regularly consumed.
Manufactured with simple technology. Videos, manuals and periodicals target policy makers, health professionals and the public 2. Easy to administer. A large body of existing clinical, experimental and epidemiological studies can be applied. Methods are proven and practical.