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Iodine Deficiency

Meaning

Iodine Deficiency is a clinical state resulting from insufficient dietary intake of the essential trace element iodine, which is absolutely indispensable for the synthesis of the thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). This deficiency leads to inadequate production of these crucial metabolic hormones, causing a compensatory enlargement of the thyroid gland known as a goiter. The most severe consequence is impaired neurocognitive development in fetuses and young children, but in adults, it causes hypothyroidism, characterized by systemic fatigue, cold intolerance, and cognitive impairment. Addressing this deficiency through supplementation or iodized salt is a global public health priority for ensuring optimal endocrine and neurological function.