First-fourth graders will learn to consume iodine salt

The first-fourth graders will be taught to consume iodine salt. The first lesson centered on the promotion of iodine salt consumption will be given on November 11 in all the first-fourth grades in the country. It will be themed “Consume Iodine Salt to be Healthy”, Info-Prim Neo reports, quoting the Ministry of Education and Youth. The lessons are part of the national program for the promotion of a healthy lifestyle for 2007 – 2015 and of the national program for the eradication of disorders caused by iodine deficiency until 2010. According to statistics, over 37% of the Moldovan children aged 8-10 have palpable or visible goiter, which is the most noticeable disorder caused by iodine deficiency. Doctors warn that besides visible signs, iodine deficiency causes a series of hidden states that affect especially the developing brain of children. Therefore, the iodine deficiency has repercussions for the cognitive capacities and results of the children at school, causes somnolence and tiredness, reduces the hearing capacity and, in serious cases, leads to cretinism. In women, iodine deficiency can also lead to abortions and premature birth giving.