77th World Health Assembly side event

On May 29, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe and the Iodine Global Network (IGN), with support from Kiwanis International and sponsorship from the governments of Switzerland and Germany, launched a major report at the 77th World Health Assembly. The new report addresses the persistent issue of iodine deficiency in Europe. The last WHO report on this topic was published fifteen years ago, and since then, significant new data has emerged, particularly concerning vulnerable populations.

The launch event, held at the Maison Internationale des Associations in Geneva, featured presentations by the report’s authors and discussions among key stakeholders from various sectors, including government representatives from Switzerland and Germany, international organizations like UNICEF and the SUN Movement, and industry associations. Distinguished participants included Werner Schultink (IGN), Awilo Ochieng (Swiss Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office), Kremlin Wickramasinghe (WHO), Filip Delanote (Kiwanis International), Dr. Maria Andersson (IGN), Dr. Rodrigo Moreno Reyes (IGN), Dr. Sarah Bath (University of Surrey), Jonah Goodman (Journalist), Karan Courtney Haag (UNICEF Europe and Central Asia Regional Office), Editha Giese (German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture), Irina Zodrow (SUN Movement Secretariat), and Martina Gonzalez (GAPSBiF).

The report highlights several critical points regarding iodine deficiency in Europe. The number of countries with inadequate iodine intake among school-age children has significantly decreased over the past two decades, dropping from 23 countries to just 4. Despite this progress, many women remain iodine deficient, particularly in regions where iodization is not mandatory. Also, the consumption of dairy products, a key dietary source of iodine, is declining, exacerbating the risk of deficiency. As well as, in some countries, only a small proportion of edible salt is iodized, with even lower rates for salt used in the food industry.

The discussions emphasized several key points such as the importance of addressing changing dietary trends to ensure sustained adequate iodine intake. The economic impact of iodine deficiency, even in its mild forms, on public health and productivity was highlighted and the need for coordinated action to promote the use of iodized salt in all food products. Additionally, the rise in mild iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) in Europe, which was thought to be a forgotten issue was explored and the potential of similar issues arising in developing countries, where the sustainability of salt iodization programs is emerging as a threat to the success achieved under these programs.

The launch of this report at WHA77 underscores the urgent need for coordinated efforts to combat iodine deficiency in Europe. The event amplified the call for member states to strengthen and expand large-scale food fortification programs, including salt iodization, to prevent micronutrient deficiencies and related health issues.