The state government is all set to introduce a scheme to check the problem of iodine deficiency among pregnant women. This deficiency is known to cause grave consequences to newborns, ranging from mental retardation, brain damage to lower IQ. Under the new scheme, expected to roll out by January next, free iodised salt will be distributed to pregnant women. Iodine is a vital micronutrient, and is consumed mostly through salt. However, only 41 per cent of the state’s population meet the prescribed daily requirement of 150 micrograms of iodine daily, according to the National Family Health Survey, III. Dr Kapil Yadav, senior program officer, International Council for the Control of Iodine Deficiency, put the gravity of the situation into perspective. "The figures will be further lesser as far as pregnant women are concerned, as in times of pregnancy, the prescribed intake of iodine rises to 250 micrograms per day. Therefore, iodine deficiency is a problem that more than 60 per cent of pregnant women in the state face."
According to estimates, over 12 lakh children are born in the state every year.The scheme will be implemented jointly by the Social Welfare and Nutritious Meal Programme Department and the Health Department, with salt being procured from the Tamil Nadu Salt Corporation.Tamil Nadu Salt Corporation managing director TD Sunderraj said that 500600 tonnes of iodised salt will be made available for distribution among pregnant women in the state every month through the Public Distribution System. The health department is currently finalising details of the scheme and will issue cards to pregnant women that will enable them to collect free iodised salt from ration shops across the state.
October 21 is observed as the Global Iodine Deficiency Disorder Day.
