IODINE - DO WE NEED AN ENRICHMENT PROGRAM IN DENMARK

A working group was established to evaluate the need for iodine enrich ment in Denmark. Judged from studies of urinary iodine excretion and o ne dietary survey the intake of iodine in Denmark is low compared with recommended intakes. The occurrence of non-toxic goitre is relatively high; between 9 and 13 % in elderly women. Furthermore, a high occurr ence of toxic goitre has been seen in the western part of Denmark. On the other hand, an increased or a high intake of iodine may lead to hy perthyroidism and thyroiditis. The working group concluded that an inc rease in iodine intake in the Danish population is needed and the best way to achieve this is to iodize all salt. To avoid side effects of a sudden large increase in iodine intake the initial amount of iodine i n salt will only be 2 ppm.