UNICEF report touts iodized salt

Thursday, December 3, 2009 10:57 am

The U.N. Children's Fund says 8.8 million children under age five die from largely preventable causes every year. A new report finds a few simple, cost-effective interventions, including use of iodized salt, could save the lives of many children currently dying from malnutrition related illnesses.

The UNICEF report says about 200 million children under the age of five in the developing world suffer from stunted growth as a result of chronic maternal and childhood under nutrition.

UNICEF Executive Director Ann Veneman says the health of the child is inextricably linked to the health of the mother particulary in the 1000 days from conception until a child’s second birthday. "Malnutrition during this period can result in decreased cognitive development of the child," said Ann Veneman. "This then impacts the ability of the child to learn in school and earn as an adult. Studies have shown that lack of iodine alone can result in a 13.5-point decline in IQ."

The report notes several simple, cost effective interventions can save many lives and prevent stunting in children. It cites exclusive breast-feeding and supplementing micronutrients through iodized salt and vitamin A supplements.

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