Health experts report that iodine deficiency is increasing again in some places, linked to reduced use of iodised salt. Iodine is necessary for normal thyroid function and for preventing health problems caused by deficiency, including goiter (an enlarged thyroid gland) and preventable neurological damage, particularly during pregnancy and early life. In the 20th century, iodisation of salt was widely adopted and became one of the most effective public health measures to address iodine deficiency.
Multiple outlets note that iodised salt has lost popularity in recent years, contributing to renewed risk. They highlight groups that are more likely to be affected, including people who follow vegan or vegetarian diets and pregnant women, who may be especially reliant on dietary sources or iodised products to meet iodine needs. The reporting emphasizes that iodine deficiency is not only a historical issue and that changes in dietary practices and food sourcing can influence iodine intake. Overall, the coverage calls attention to the importance of maintaining iodine sources, particularly where iodised salt availability and use have declined.
