Global iodine deficiency disorders prevention day observed

Dimapur, Oct. 22 (EMN): Along with the rest of the world, the global iodine deficiency disorders day was observed in Dimapur and Mokokchung on Oct 22. The aim of this day is to generate awareness of the adequate use of iodine and to highlight the consequences of iodine deficiency. DIMAPUR: Chief medical officer, Dr. K. Vikato Kinimi, during a programme held in observance of the day, urged the stockists and traders under Dimapur district, who were present at the programme, to 'sell only iodised salt so that the public may use only iodised salt'. He also cautioned the stockists and traders that the health department will be carrying out  inspection and testing of iodised salt on a regular basis and defaulters will be fined as per the provision provided under PFA Act 1954 which bans the sale of non-iodised salt in the country. Dy.CMO Dimapur, Dr. Antoly Suu, while highlighting the members on the conditions and diseases related to iodine deficiency disorder, said that 'using only iodine salt is a small step which everyone can take to prevent many irreversible health issues such as mental and physical growth retardation, goitre, etc.' She further informed that all Stockists must notify the Department when new salt consignment reaches Dimapur for testing and verification. All the members present also took the pledge to sell and distribute only iodised salt in the district. Awareness activities on Iodine Deficiency Disorders Prevention (IDDP) are being carried out in various schools by organising painting competition, essay writing competition, etc. and awareness programmes for community leaders are also being conducted. The IDDP awareness activities are being carried out throughout the month of October 2018 in Dimapur District, informed a press release from the CMO office. MOKOKCHUNG: The day was observed at Mokokchung Municipal Council's conference hall on Oct 22 on the theme 'Iodised salt, traders' responsibility' with the salt traders of Mokokchung town. The aim in organising the programme is to generate awareness on adequate use of iodine and to highlight on the consequences of iodine deficiency in the body. A press release from the medical department stated that Dr. Kibangkumba, the deputy chief medical officer highlighted on the importance of iodine and said that the mineral  is an essential micronutrient required for normal thyroid function growth and development. "Iodine deficiency can lead to variety of health and development consequences known as iodine deficiency disorders," he said. The dy. cmo informed that monitoring of iodised salt will be done by Accredited social health activists (ASHAs) in every shop. The salt traders were also made to sign a pledge to sell only iodised salt for human consumption . the programme was attended by salt traders, MMC members, salt traders and CMO staff, the release stated.