Prevention and control of iodine deficiency in the WHO European Region: Adapting to changes in diet and lifestyle

Increasing popularity and availability of plant-based alternatives to key sources of iodine (milk, dairy, fish) is contributing to persistent and increased insufficient iodine intake in the WHO European region, according to a report released today by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Iodine Global Network (IGN). This increases risks for people’s health, particularly for women during pregnancy who have higher iodine needs.

Milk and dairy products are important sources of iodine in many West and Central European countries, especially for children. Many animal feeds and supplements are enriched with iodine to improve farm animals’ health and milk yields. Yet consumption of dairy products is declining among adolescents and adults, heightening their risk of iodine deficiency.

Iodine intake is especially important prior to and during pregnancy for fetal brain development.  “The shift towards plant-based dairy alternatives, particularly among women, who already bear a higher risk of iodine deficiency and thyroid diseases than men, is concerning for their iodine nutrition, especially in countries relying on milk as a source of iodine, as most dairy alternatives do not contain it,” said Dr. Hans Kluge, WHO’s Regional Director for Europe.  “This report has been crucial in highlighting a problem that still exists or is re-emerging in countries in the region.”

Salt iodization remains the main strategy to ensure adequate iodine intake in the region but that too is affected by dietary and lifestyle changes. “There is a lack of knowledge about the consequences of iodine deficiency among the general public and among health authorities, health professionals and food producers.  The result is that progress may be stalling or even declining in some countries. And there are other costs – even mild deficiency, which exists throughout Europe, has a major impact on population health and the economy”, said Dr. Werner Schultink, Executive Director, IGN.

Read the report and key messages.

Read our blog on the issue here.

Read about the side event at the World Health Assembly to launch the report.

Read the joint press release.