By Mariela Angella Oladive
SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Antique — Antique is pushing for stricter enforcement of salt iodization after data from the Iodine Global Network showed the province has one of the highest iodine deficiency rates in the country among lactating mothers.
During a workshop with the Provincial Nutrition Committee on March 12, IGN national director Dr. Teofilo San Luis Jr. said Antique ranked second nationwide in iodine deficiency among lactating mothers based on a 2019 study.
The study found that iodine intake in the province measured only 58 micrograms per liter, below the recommended 100 to 199 micrograms per liter.
Zamboanga del Norte recorded the lowest level at 57 micrograms per liter.
San Luis said inadequate iodine intake during pregnancy and early infancy may affect brain development and could lead to learning difficulties or lower intelligence if not addressed within the first 1,000 days of life, or from pregnancy until a child reaches age 2.
“Iodine deficiency is less of a concern among schoolchildren but remains a significant issue among pregnant and lactating women because of its potential impact on unborn children,” he said.
According to the IGN, at least 30 provinces in the Philippines have problems related to salt iodization.
San Luis also said 72% of salt samples tested nationwide failed to meet the required iodization standard, while only 28% passed.
To address the issue, the Provincial Nutrition Committee is drafting a resolution requiring the use, production and sale of iodized salt for food consumption across the province, in line with Republic Act 8172, or the ASIN Law.
Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Dr. Zoilo Bernardo Tubiano is set to sponsor the proposed resolution before the provincial board for deliberation.
Antique Gov. Paolo Javier, who chairs the Provincial Nutrition Committee, said the province will strengthen enforcement of iodization policies and urged households to use iodized salt in food preparation.
He also called for public support for policies ensuring that only iodized salt is sold in markets.
“Iodine is a vital nutrient to protect the health, brain development, and the future of our children. Together, we can prevent the consequences of iodine deficiency in our province,” Javier said.
