Iodine is required for the synthesis of the thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) and essential for the normal growth and development and well being of all humans. It is a micronutrient and normally required around 100-150 microgram for normal growth and development. Deficiency of iodine may cause following disorders:

• Goiter
• Subnormal intelligence
• Neuromuscular weakness
• Endemic cretinism
• Still birth
• Hypothyroidism
• Defect in vision, hearing, and speech
• Spasticity
• Intrauterine death
• Mental retardation

In 1992, the National Goiter Control Programme (NGCP) was renamed as National Iodine Deficiency Disorder Control Programme (NIDDCP).

Objectives:

The important objectives and components of National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme (NIDDCP) are as follows:-

• Surveys to assess the magnitude of the Iodine Deficiency Disorders.
• Supply of iodated salt in place of common salt.
• Resurvey after every 5 years to assess the extent of Iodine Deficiency Disorders and the impact of lodated salt.
• Laboratory monitoring of iodated salt and urinary iodine excretion.
• Health education and Publicity.

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Reference : nrhm.gov.in