Lack of iodine exposes 19 million babies a year to brain damage risk

Scientists warn mineral deficiency leaves 14% of newborns vulnerable to impaired mental development

A lack of iodine in pregnancy and early childhood puts nearly 19 million babies around the world at risk of permanent but preventable brain damage every year, a new report has warned.

Insufficient iodine during pregnancy can adversely affect neurological and psychological development, reducing a child’s IQ by eight to 10 points.

Related: Pregnant mothers and the dangers of iodine deficiency

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from Children | The Guardian http://ift.tt/2F5afwl