ABSTRACT
Iodine is a trace element that is essential for thyroid hormone synthesis. Thyroid hormones affect the function of virtually every organ system and are critical for fetal and infant neurodevelopment in utero and in early life. Iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) have multiple adverse effects on growth and development, including endemic goiter, cretinism, intellectual impairments, growth retardation, and neonatal hypothyroidism.1 Low maternal thyroid hormones due to iodine deficiency can cause irreversible fetal brain damage.2
