Celebrating the centennial of a major US public health triumph

Reflecting on the centennial celebration of salt iodization in the United States in 2024, Dr. Elizabeth Pearce, Regional Coordinator for North America at IGN, shares her thoughts on the journey towards this public health milestone in the article ‘Iodized salt: Celebrating the centennial of a major US public health triumph’ published in Healio, a trusted information platform for physicians and health care professionals.

Dr. Pearce notes that just over a century ago, iodine deficiency plagued much of the U.S. population, leading to debilitating disorders. The prevalence of goiter, particularly in regions like the upper Midwest, Pacific Northwest, and Appalachians, prompted urgent action. Groundbreaking clinical trials conducted in Akron between 1917 and 1920 demonstrated the efficacy of iodine supplementation in preventing endemic goiter, paving the way for the adoption of salt iodization in 1924 and subsequent reduction in goiter rates.

However, recent trends indicate a resurgence of mild iodine deficiency among U.S. pregnant women, underscoring the need for continued vigilance. Dr. Pearce emphasizes that unlike most other countries today, salt iodization remains voluntary in the U.S., with only half of table salt sold currently iodized, posing a risk to public health. Additionally, she highlights the emergence of dairy as an important source of iodine in the U.S. diet but notes that it is not as widely consumed as salt across the population. The growing popularity of plant-based milk alternatives, devoid of iodine, may further exacerbate the decline in U.S. iodine intakes.

As the nation celebrates past successes, Dr. Pearce stresses the importance of maintaining optimal iodine nutrition to prevent the resurgence of iodine deficiency and ensure a healthier future for all. Through ongoing efforts and heightened awareness, she believes that the U.S. can continue to build upon its legacy of iodine fortification and safeguard public health for generations to come.

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