International JODIS©-Project

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 1.88 billion people worldwide are at risk of iodine deficiency, which can potentially lead to 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 Jodis Project’, an effort to prevent global and individual iodine deficiency.

The International JODIS© Project is a comprehensive initiative addressing global iodine deficiency by promoting “Jodis-Concentrate,” a stable, bioavailable iodine solution used in various applications, from food products to agriculture. Unlike traditional methods like iodized salt, Jodis-Concentrate aims to be more effective because it is heat-stable, resists degradation, and provides a natural, bioavailable form of iodine in water and food products. This allows for a steady supply of iodine without the side effects associated with high-concentration supplements or salt iodization, which can be unstable and lose iodine content over time.

The project promotes iodine use not only in food but also in agriculture, livestock, and personal care, thereby supporting both individual and community health. It also supports regional education and public health initiatives, aiming to achieve optimal iodine levels globally and reduce the prevalence of related non-communicable diseases.

Project objectives

The primary objectives of the International JODIS© Project include:

  1. Universal and Individual Iodine Deficiency Prevention: Implement both individual and community-wide iodine prophylaxis to mitigate deficiency risks.
  2. Educational Outreach: Conduct programs to increase awareness of iodine’s importance and promote integrated solutions for deficiency.
  3. Product and Program Development: Develop products such as Jodis-Concentrate to enrich foods and beverages with natural iodine, improving both accessibility and bioavailability.
  4. Agricultural and Environmental Applications: Use Jodis-Concentrate in agriculture (fertilizers, livestock water) to improve crop and animal health sustainably.
  5. Health Monitoring and Standards: Target optimal urinary iodine levels to reduce deficiency and related health issues, especially in pregnant women and vulnerable populations.
  6. Global Collaboration and Support: Foster partnerships across governments, health organizations, and communities to maintain project reach and efficacy.

These objectives help create a robust, multifaceted approach to iodine deficiency, addressing both immediate and systemic needs in affected populations.

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 Implement the program:

  • 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. 

Project outcome

The International JODIS© Project aims for several significant global outcomes:

  1. Reduction in Iodine Deficiency Disorders: By achieving optimal iodine intake, the project seeks to lower the rates of goiter, intellectual disabilities, and other conditions related to iodine deficiency, especially in high-risk regions​.
  2. Improvement in Public Health and Cognitive Outcomes: With better iodine nutrition, cognitive function and productivity are expected to improve, particularly in children, potentially leading to healthier future generations​.
  3. Economic and Social Benefits: Improved public health can reduce healthcare costs, while fortified agricultural products can increase economic yield. For example, healthier populations tend to be more productive, contributing to economic growth at both local and national levels​.
  4. Environmental Sustainability: By using Jodis-Concentrate in environmentally friendly fertilizers and animal feed, the project supports sustainable agricultural practices, which can contribute to long-term ecological health​.

These outcomes are part of a broader strategy to tackle iodine deficiency in a sustainable, multi-sectoral approach, benefiting public health, economy, and the environment on a global scale.

Conclusion

The International JODIS© Project is a forward-looking, multi-faceted solution aimed at addressing the global iodine deficiency crisis. With the development and distribution of Jodis-Concentrate, it offers an innovative approach to supplement iodine safely and sustainably through everyday products like drinking water, food, and agricultural resources. This approach avoids some limitations of traditional salt iodization, such as iodine instability, and integrates seamlessly into various facets of life, from individual consumption to environmental applications​.

The project emphasizes health education, community partnerships, and government collaboration, targeting both universal and individualized iodine intake. It also contributes to long-term public health improvements, economic benefits through increased productivity, and environmental sustainability by promoting eco-friendly agricultural practices​.

The International JODIS© Project represents a comprehensive, sustainable method for combating iodine deficiency globally, aiming not only for health improvements but also for economic and ecological benefits across diverse communities.


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