Introduction
Iodine deficiency is a significant medical problem, which has been outlined by multiple health institutions, including the World Health Organization (WHO). The most common non-communicable diseases are associated with the lack of iodine in one’s diet. All living organisms require a multitude of micro-elements, vitamins, and other substances to function properly and iodine is one of the main organizing units of life in all its manifestations. It is an essential structural component of thyroid hormones: thyroxine and triiodothyronine. Therefore a sufficient amount of iodine is necessary in physiological synthesis and secretion of these hormones. Most recent estimates show that more than 1.5 billion people worldwide are at risk of iodine deficiency, which can potentially lead ti mental and physical retardation, deaf-mutism, blurred vision, and a plethora of other mental and physical conditions.
The massive scope of the problem has resulted in a continuous effort to find the solution to the iodine deficiency problem. However, the depth and complexity of the problem raises questions about the actual implementation of any one organized governmental solution. In recent years existing mass prophylaxis of iodine deficiency yielded some results, yet there remain certain challenges. Iodization of salt, which is the most common form of the mass prophylaxis, is not an entirely viable solution. Firstly, iodine in salt is not stable and it’s content diminishes over time, especially during transportation. Secondly, excessive consumption of sodium can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. Current WHO recommendation for the general population is to reduce the consumption of salt to no more than 5 grams per day. Therefore, a different approach is needed alongside mass prophylaxis. This situation has led to the foundation of the ‘International Iodis Project’, an effort to prevent global and individual iodine deficiency.
The main feature of this project is that it is comprehensive and involves the fundamental aspects of life of the human community on the group and individual level. We have closer and more specific approach to each person and the environment. The ‘International Iodis Project’ combines private and public initiative. It encompasses community organizations, businesses, medical centers and research institutions. Many countries have government support programs and the support of respected authorities. Local authorities are in course of the project realization. There are even examples of specific regional programs. All this allows us to carry out an effective and aggressive prevention of iodine deficiency every day.
Project objectives
- The introduction of individual and universal iodine deficiency prophylaxis.
- To conduct ongoing education programs about the need for integrated solutions of iodine deficiency and its significance.
The idea of the project
The idea of the project is based on the use of new generation product, “Jodis-concentrate” in two ways:
• Enrichment of daily food with natural iodine; enrichment of daily foods with iodine slightly increases the cost of production, but in turn, it creates competitive advantage as products become more attractive to the buyer. The economic rationality alone is reason enough to implement this program.
• Utilization of “Jodis-concentrate” in environmentally friendly fertilizer, and water for livestock and poultry. This enhances yields, quality, and shelf life.
Additionally, other uses of “Jodis-concentrate” include:
– cosmetology;
– pharmacology;
– personal hygiene and preventive maintenance;
– growing technology beneficial insects;
– the use in motor oil and lubricants;
– creation of optimal health conditions in residential areas;
– reclamation of the human environment (restoration of fertility of soils, air quality, etc.);
– proper use of radio protective and anti-stress properties of “Jodis” products
Implementation of the program
The following steps are recommended to solve this problem:
• High-level analysis of the problem;
• Targeted clinical studies that allow to specify the direction and means of prevention;
• Model of iodine provision for pregnant and lactating women, diabetics and other vulnerable groups;
• Development and production of new products, drugs, under the brand name “Jodis”, for the successful implementation of this program;
• Reasonable use of products “Jodis”, which corresponds to the world standards, for individual and group prevention of iodine deficiency;
• “Jodis” promotion on the international market;
• Expansion of iodine deficiency awareness through targeted magazines, videos, conference, etc.;
• Creation of a permanent “Jodis center ” in all regions.
Key performance indicators
- Achieving universal median urinary iodine concentration in the range of 100-199 mg / l.
- Achieving median urinary iodine concentration in pregnant women in the range 150-249 mg / l.
- Reduction of the prevalence of non-communicable diseases in regions with the highest iodine deficiency.
Economic and social outcomes
• Soviet statistics indicated that one ruble invested in iodization of agricultural products returns 52 rubles profit.
• Statistical calculations now show that only the reduction of goitre in the adult population of Ukraine would have a direct economic effect of 14,250,000 USD
• Prevention of non-communicable diseases is the key to increasing labor productivity.
• Creation of a healthy new generation with highly developed intelligence.
Conclusion
INTERNATIONAL IODIS PROJECT is an exemplary solution to a global challenge by the self-organizing actions of the people. It is medically and economically efficient and reliable public solution to iodine deficiency in any area of any country.