Iodine intake in the Belgian population is insufficient
Delange, F.
Bulletin et Memoires de l'Academie Royale de Medecine de Belgique 153(10-11) 373-380; Discussion: 381-383
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 0377-8231 PMID: 10230106 Document Number: 491530
This paper reviews all presently available data on iodine nutrition in Belgium. All age groups have an iodine intake below the recommendations by WHO. The main consequences are subclinical hypothyroidism with goiter during pregnancy and a risk of transient hypothyroidism resulting in minor brain damage in the neonate. Moreover the cost of therapy of IDD in Belgium is about one billion BEF of which some 75% could be avoided by well controlled and monitored iodine prophylaxis in the country. Such a program should be implemented.