In Bashkortostan, 70% of the population experiences iodine deficiency, which can lead to thyroid disorders—from hypothyroidism to malignant tumors. This was reported by Lyaisan Garipova, an endocrinologist at the Republican Clinical Hospital named after Kuvatov, in an interview with Electrogazeta.
The specialist explained that the thyroid gland produces thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), which require iodine for synthesis. These hormones regulate metabolism, energy balance, and even emotional well-being. A lack of iodine disrupts hormone production, leading to serious health consequences.
Severe iodine deficiency manifests as hypothyroidism, where thyroid hormone levels drop drastically. If untreated, it can cause heart dysfunction, heart failure, and slowed metabolism.
Early symptoms are often unnoticeable, but as the condition progresses, patients may experience:
- Discomfort in the neck
- Feeling of a "lump in the throat"
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chronic fatigue, headaches
- Dry skin, brittle nails
High-risk groups include pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children.
For prevention, Dr. Garipova recommends:
- Using iodized salt (added to ready meals, as heat destroys iodine)
- Eating seafood, seaweed, and fish (at least once a week)
- Consuming iodine-rich fruits like persimmons and feijoas
