Prevention Iodine

Iodine prophylaxis is the prevention of diseases of endemic goiter, based on the use of table salt enriched with potassium iodide in the diet.

Endemic goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland caused by iodine deficiency. It is common in regions with insufficient iodine in soil, water and food. Since iodine is necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, its lack leads to a compensatory enlargement of the gland.

Iodine prophylaxis is aimed at replenishing iodine deficiency and preventing the development of thyroid diseases. For this, iodized salt is used - ordinary table salt with the addition of a small amount of potassium iodide. This salt is safe for consumption and allows you to provide the body with the necessary amount of iodine.

The introduction of iodine prophylaxis has made it possible to effectively combat endemic goiter in many countries of the world. According to the World Health Organization, adequate iodine intake is a simple and inexpensive way to prevent developmental disorders associated with deficiency of this micronutrient.

Prevention of iodine deficiency is the main task of a competent endocrinologist when working with patients with thyroid diseases and pregnant women. Among the first-line iodine preparations already in use are:

potassium iodide (131 I). It is believed that this name in combination with one of these drugs reflects the high solubility of 131 J (more than 90%) and lipophilicity,