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Current Iodine Deficiency Disorder Situation
Population
P opulation: 10.3 million
Population growth rate: -0.14%
Population < 15 years: 17.3%
Birth rate: 9.9 per 1000
Life expectancy at birth: 68.3 years
Infant mortality: 14.1 per 1000
Prevalence of Goiter/ UIE
Median urinary iodine: 44.5 mcg/L (1998). A nationwide study of 11,562 children and adolescents from 30 schools throughout the country took place from 1995-1998. The median urinary iodine was 44.5 mcg/L; by oblast: Minsk , 38.1; Gomel , 79.8; Brest , 27.3; Vitepsk, 40.3; Mogilev , 49.0; Grodno , 47.0. Goiter by palpation was 33.4% and by ultrasound, 17.2 (probably needs adjustment for revised WHO criteria). Generally, the deficiency was more severe throughout the country, with less in the southeast in Gomel (probably because previous anti-goiter measures were applied following the Chernobyl accident).
In 1950's IDD was found to be endemic in areas of Eastern provinces. A 1956 national survey of schoolchildren found a TGR of 21.6%. Surveys in several provinces revealed many endemic areas. Gomel (southeast) was found to have moderate levels of IDD (8.6% in general population). Prevalence decreased in 1970's, started rising in 1980's.
Iodized salt Coverage
Household iodized salt use: 50%
Status: Moderate deficiency, needs push towards USI, monitoring update.
Salt Situation Analysis Production
Two modern plants (for vacuum and rock salt) produce high quality salt with good packaging. Salt is exported to many European countries.
- Iodized salt production: 45,000 tons
- Compound: KIO3
- Iodization level: 40 +/- 15 ppm (2000)
Consumption
Estimated household consumption of adequately iodized salt: 40-60%..
Iodine Procurement and Utilization
Salt is iodized with KIO3
Universal Salt Iodization Program
Information, Education, Communication (IEC) Activities
High public awareness of thyroid problems from Chernobyl effect, particularly Gomel . International groups from USA , Japan , and Europe active in follow-up. Some local negative attitudes towards USI. Need follow-up national data on urinary iodine and increased coverage with iodized salt.
Legislation
- Legislation: Yes
- Legislation for Animals: Uncertain
- Level of Salt Iodization Required: 40 ppm (?)
- Year enacted: 2001 - A governmental decree requires exclusive use of iodized salt for processed food, except sea fish.
Program Monitoring and Evaluation
The Ministry of Health is responsible. A national control program has been planned, to include Ministries of Health, Agriculture, Education, and others, but has not been implemented.
Quality control system for iodized salt has been established. Biological monitoring is in place, results not known; urinary iodine laboratory is available
Other Interventions Iodine tablets and KI solution for children have been widely used, especially in the southeast areas influenced by Chernobyl .
Key Lessons Learned
Challenges and Constraints
Future Plans for Sustained IDD Elimination
Sources:
IDD NL 18(3):33, 2002
IDD NL 16(1):7, 2000
IDD NL 13(1):4, 1997 |
