Iodine deficiency: A serious health risk for pregnant women and children

According to Prof. Rusanka Kovacheva, Chair of the Bulgarian Thyroid and Parathyroid Association, iodine deficiency affects every second pregnant woman and 13% of children in Bulgaria. The main reason is the preference of families for alternative types of salt, such as Himalayan salt, which is not iodized.

"If this behavior among people continues, iodine deficiency diseases will increase, which will set our country back by decades," warns Assoc. Prof. Alexander Shinkov.

Symptoms to watch out for:

  • Heavy sweating and heart palpitations;
  • Hair loss;
  • Changes in weight and appetite;
  • Sleep disorders.

Why is prevention important?

The thyroid gland plays a key role in fetal development. Pregnant women must check their thyroid function to avoid fatal consequences for the child. Experts remind that taking dietary supplements without medical supervision is not a solution and often carries risks, as there is no strict control over their production.

Advice: If you have symptoms or a family history, do not resort to self-medication, but seek out a specialist endocrinologist in time.