Port Blair, Oct. 25: An awareness programme on Iodine Deficiency prevention was held at GB Pant Hospital on Monday last to mark global Iodine deficiency disorders prevention day.  Inaugurating the programme, the Chairperson of Zilla Parishad, Abala Samaddar appealed to the islanders to consume only iodized salt to prevent iodine deficiency disorders like goiter.  She said about 150 to 200 micrograms of iodine is required daily and the same could easily be obtained from the regular consumption of iodized salt.  She also emphasised that sufficient iodine intake is essential for the pregnant women to ensure safe delivery and brain development of the infant.

Speaking on the occasion, the Grain Dealers Association president, V R Muniyandi stated that only the iodized salt procured from mainland by the dealers is being supplied to all parts of these islands and the health department also closely monitored the same.  He said the iodized salt should always be kept in air tight containers to prevent its loss.

Earlier, while welcoming the gathering, Dr.Paul, Director of Health Services informed that the iodine deficiency disorders are under control in the islands.  He stated that iodine helps proper secretion of Thyroid hormone, which ensure  normal growth, development and functioning of the brain and hence consumption of iodized salt is essential for every one particularly the children to enable them perform better in their studies.  He also sought the cooperation by everyone to keep the islanders free from any form of iodine deficiency.

Dr. Thulasidasan, Deputy Director of Health Services also spoke on the occasion.  A large number of people attended the programme