Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Oct 22: “There is a need for consuming iodised salt to prevent iodine deficiency – a silent but serious nutritional disorder that continues to affect millions across the globe,” doctors in Kashmir said.
Although awareness about the use of iodised salt has improved significantly in Jammu and Kashmir, experts warn that lapses in its use can still lead to grave health complications, particularly among women and children.
Dr Shabir Ahmad Dar from the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK) said that iodine is a vital micronutrient required for the production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, growth, and development.
“When the body does not get enough iodine, the thyroid gland enlarges in an attempt to capture more iodine from the bloodstream, leading to the formation of a goitre — a visible swelling in the neck,” he said.
Dr Dar said that iodine deficiency is one of the leading causes of preventable brain damage in children. “In pregnant women, the deficiency can lead to miscarriages, stillbirths, and mental disability in newborns. Children born to iodine-deficient mothers often suffer from developmental delays, stunted growth, and lower IQ levels,” he added.
Dr Bashir Ahmad Mir, a paediatrician, said that despite significant progress under the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme (NIDDCP), there is still a need for continuous awareness and monitoring.
“The use of iodised salt is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent iodine deficiency. Every household must ensure that the salt they use is adequately iodised,” he said.
Recent health surveys, including NFHS-5, have shown encouraging trends, with around 98 per cent of households reportedly using iodised salt. However, officials caution that proper storage and usage are equally important, as iodine can evaporate if the salt is exposed to moisture or heat for prolonged periods.
Doctors said that preventive measures include the iodised salt for daily cooking and ensuring it is stored in an airtight container away from moisture and sunlight, educating communities about the importance of iodine in the diet, conducting regular health check-ups and awareness programs, especially in remote and rural areas and encouraging monitoring of iodine levels in commercially sold salt to ensure compliance with health standards.
They have urged the people to be vigilant and consistent in using iodised salt, stressing that the cost of prevention is negligible compared to the lifelong impact of iodine deficiency disorders.
“A pinch of iodised salt each day can save generations from avoidable physical and mental disabilities,” doctors advised.
