National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme in India

Abstract

Iodine Deficiency Disorders are one of the biggest worldwide public health problem of today. Their effect is hidden and profound affecting the quality of human life. An attempt has been made to describe the various aspects of the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders control Programme (NIDDCP) being implemented in the country. The paper also focuses about the problems associated in implementing this national programme.

PIP: In India, 167 million people are at risk of iodine deficiency disorders (IDDs). 54.4 million people have a goiter. About 8.8 million people have IDD-related mental/motor handicaps. IDD is a problem in every state and union territory. It is a major public health problem in 211 of the 245 districts surveyed. Even though IDDs cannot be cured, they can be easily prevented. Daily consumption of iodized/iodated salt is the most effective and inexpensive way to prevent IDD. In 1962, the government of India implemented the National Goitre Control Programme, now called the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme (NIDDCP). In 1982, the government made a policy decision to iodate all edible salt in India by 1992. During 1994-1995, India's private sector produced 34 lakh metric tons of iodated salt per year. The government expects iodated salt production to increase to 50 lakh metric tons in the near future. Iodated salt is transported on the railways under a priority category that is second only to defense. In 19 states and 6 union territories, the sale of noniodated salt has been completely banned. The remaining state governments have been urged to ban the sale of noniodated salt and to include iodated salt under the public distribution system. Each State Health Directorate has been advised to set up an IDD Control Cell. The biochemistry division of the National Institute of Communicable Diseases has a national reference laboratory for monitoring of IDD, and it also trains medical and paramedical personnel. District health officers in all endemic states have test kits to conduct on-the-spot qualitative testing to ensure quality control of iodated salt at the consumption level. NIDDCP provides IDD surveys, health education, and publicity campaigns. Its information, education, and campaign activities include video films, posters, and radio/TV spots.