Lessons for Russia: Global and Regional Progress in Overcoming the Lack of Iodine in Diet
Objective: To assess the effectiveness of programs — implemented in Eastern Europe, former USSR countries, and other countries worldwide — aimed at preventing iodine deficiency. Key Points: The authors discuss the successful experience of Central and Eastern European countries and former USSR countries in implementing specific programs to overcome the lack of iodine in the diet. These programs were based on adding iodine to salt as a public measure. They particularly focus on measures taken in Belorussia. Between 2001 and 2009, this country almost completely got rid of the lack of iodine in the diet. During this period, the incidence of endemic goiter was reduced by 66-75%. All these results were possible due to a well-thought-out mandatory measure — to use iodized salt in the food-processing and food-service industries. Conclusion: This article describes experiences in implementing programs aimed at preventing iodine deficiency. This can benefit Russia and other industrialized countries.