Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct. 19: Together with the rest of the globe, World Iodine Deficiency Day, also known as Global Iodine deficiency Disorders Prevention Day will be observed in Isles too on 21st October, 2025 by the Directorate of Health Services in association with Union Territory Health Mission. The day serves as a reminder of the progress made in preventing iodine deficiency disorders (Goitre, deaf & mutism, cretinism, still births, abortion etc.) through national and global initiatives. Today, the focus has widened beyond just goitre or physical disorders. It emphasizes mental development, maternal health and child survival globally. As part of the observance, various awareness programmes will be conducted in all Health Institutions across the Islands about Iodine deficiency disorders.
It aims to raise awareness about the essential role of iodine in maintaining good health and emphasizes the consequences of iodine deficiency. Iodine is a crucial component of the thyroid hormones, thyroxine and triiodothyronine, which regulate metabolism and are vital for fetal and infant development. Iodine deficiency has numerous adverse effects on growth and development and is the most common cause of preventable intellectual disability in the world. Iodine deficiency disorders result from inadequate thyroid hormone production due to insufficient iodine intake. For ages, salt has been the perfect staple as the source of Iodine in our diet. It is especially critical during the first 1000 days of a child for their brain development.
Series of activities have been planned for IDD in the Islands with main focus on IEC activities. Spot salt testing through Salt Testing Kit by ASHAs and ANMs and regular salt collection from household, shops and Anganwadi Centres for titration will be done. Various competitions (drawing, quiz and etc.) among school children will be organized. Apart from this, community awareness by outreach camps will be conducted. Demonstration of salt testing for iodine content, training of health care workers and other activities are also planned to be conducted across the Islands.