Iodized salt is most effective way of distributing iodine to general population, doctor says

Did you know that not all salt contains enough iodine to avoid iodine deficiency?

According to "24 Oras," Wednesday, the World Health Organization said that there must be at least 15 to 40 parts per million of iodine in a kilo of salt.

"Asin, especially the adequately iodized salt, is the most effective way of distributing iodine to the general population," said Iodine Global Network National Coordinator for the Philippines Dr. Teofilo San Luis Jr.

"Meron pong iodizing machine kung saan inii-spray po 'yung iodine solution," Gerard Konghun said.

In a collaborative effort by GMA Kapuso Foundation and the Department of Health, goiter screening beneficiaries were given the opportunity to test the salt they use at the ThyroMobile Medical Mission conducted in Koronadal City, South Cotabato.

Most of the results showed that the salt being used did not contain enough iodine content, including the salt brought by Rosalie Bacong, who noticeably has enlarged and bulging eyes.

"Sa t'wing lunukin ko na 'yung pagkain, bumabara na dito. 'Yung pagpa-check up ko, sabi niya, may goiter ako. Hindi naman ako makapunta kasi walang pera," she said.

GMA Kapuso Foundation immediately assisted Rosalie to have her condition checked, and they found out that she has a toxic goiter.

"Fortunately, mga antithyroid drugs lang ang dapat ibigay," Dr. Teofilo said.

"Kung meron kayong nakikita o nararamdaman na mga bukol sa leeg, 'wag ho kayong matakot na pumunta sa ating city health office," Koronadal City Health Officer Dr. Vincent Ende said.

For those who want to give support for GMA Kapuso Foundation's initiatives, you may send your donations through bank deposits, Cebuana Lhuillier, GCash, Shopee, PayMaya, Zalora, MegaMart, Globe Rewards, Metrobank credit card, and Lazada.

For more information, visit the GMA Kapuso Foundation website.

—Carby Basina/MGP, GMA Integrated News