Iodine deficiency

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Iodine deficiency is a lack of the trace element iodine, a dietary mineral that is essential in the diet. The defiency is endemic in some parts of the world and may result in metabolic problems such as goiter. If congenital, it may result in a syndrome that causes developmental delays and other health problems, sometimes including physical deformities. Iodine deficiency is an important global health issue, especially for fertile and pregnant women. It is also a preventable cause of intellectual disability, as it is necessary for neurodevelopment in children. The thyroid hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine contain iodine. In areas with little iodine in the diet, typically remote inland areas where no marine foods are eaten, deficiency is common, especially in mountainous regions where food is grown in iodine-poor soil. The problem is mainly prevented by the addition of small amounts of iodine to table salt, creating iodized salt. In areas of deficiency, iodine compounds have also been...

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