1. Consensus statement on iodine deficiency disorders in Hong Kong.
- Author
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But B, Chan CW, Chan F, Chan KW, Cheng AW, Cheung P, Choi KL, Chow CB, Chow FC, Eastman C, Fok TF, Fung LM, Gomes C, Huen KF, Ip TP, Kung AW, Lam KS, Lam YY, Lao T, Lee CY, Lee KF, Leung J, Leung NK, Li D, Li J, Lo KW, Lo L, Ng KL, Siu SC, Tam S, Tan KC, Tiu SC, Tse HY, Tse W, Wong G, Wong S, Wong W, Yeung VT, Young R, Yu CM, and Yu R
- Subjects
- Deficiency Diseases epidemiology, Female, Goiter epidemiology, Goiter prevention & control, Hong Kong epidemiology, Humans, Hypothyroidism epidemiology, Hypothyroidism prevention & control, Incidence, Iodine administration & dosage, Male, Pregnancy, Risk Factors, Deficiency Diseases prevention & control, Iodine deficiency
- Abstract
This article reviews the available data on the study of iodine deficiency disorders in Hong Kong and to discuss the approach towards preventing such disorders in Hong Kong. The importance of iodine and iodine deficiency disorders is described, and the available data on the dietary iodine intake and urinary iodine concentration in different populations of Hong Kong are summarised and discussed. Dietary iodine insufficiency among pregnant women in Hong Kong is associated with maternal goitrogenesis and hypothyroxinaemia as well as neonatal hypothyroidism. Borderline iodine deficiency exists in the expectant mothers in Hong Kong. Women of reproductive age, and pregnant and lactating women should be made aware and educated to have an adequate iodine intake, such as iodised salt, as an interim measure. A steering group involving all stakeholders should be formed to advise on the strategy of ensuring adequate iodine intake, including universal iodisation of salt in Hong Kong. Continuous surveillance of iodine status in the Hong Kong population is necessary.
- Published
- 2003