What are common symptoms of iodine deficiency?

Iodine deficiency is primarily associated with a range of serious health issues related to thyroid function. The symptoms commonly observed include goiter, which is an enlargement of the thyroid gland caused by insufficient iodine leading to disrupted hormone synthesis. Hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland, results directly from inadequate iodine intake, as iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones. Developmental delays can occur in children due to the vital role that iodine plays in brain development and function, particularly in early life.

Therefore, these symptoms collectively highlight the crucial nature of iodine in maintaining thyroid health and supporting proper growth and development, particularly in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and young children.