The challenges of harmonising the iodine supply across Europe

Abstract

Iodine, as a component of the thyroid hormones, is required for brain and neurological development; its deficiency during pregnancy and early life is associated with poorer cognitive function in the offspring. This deficiency has implications at both the individual level (eg, lower intelligence quotient) and at the country level (eg, economic potential). Iodine deficiency affects many pregnant women in Europe, and although this is a public health concern, there is a lack of consistency across countries both in the supply of iodine (eg, iodised salt programmes) and the monitoring of iodine status of the population.

Reference

Bath, S et al. The challenges of harmonising the iodine supply across Europe. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology. 2016. http://www.thelancet.com/journals/landia/article/PIIS2213-8587(16)30329-1/abstract