Cause 2: Living in Iodine-Deficient Regions
Geography also plays a critical role in iodine availability. The concentration of iodine in the soil varies greatly around the world. Regions with iodine-deficient soils are likely to yield crops with low iodine content, leading to a lower iodine intake among people who consume these crops. This issue is particularly prevalent in certain landlocked regions and regions with heavy rainfall and snow, which leads to leaching, a process where iodine is washed away from the soil.
Inhabitants of such regions are often unaware of their increased risk of iodine deficiency. Even when they are aware, the lack of iodine-enriched food sources or supplements can make it challenging to achieve adequate iodine intake. This cause highlights the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and robust public health initiatives to tackle iodine deficiency at the grassroots level.
Additionally, even coastal regions, traditionally seen as iodine-abundant due to the proximity to seawater, can be iodine-deficient. This deficiency can occur if seafood consumption is low, either due to cultural, dietary, or economic reasons.(2)
