The devastating consequence of iodine deficiency.

Endemic cretinism is the most striking consequence of iodine deficiency. Although cretinism is a serious condition, it usually involves only about 5% of the population even in serious endemic areas. There is a spectrum between cretinism and normality, many are able to perform simple work and look apparently normal, but it is difficult for them to perform skilled labor. Studies in China using the IQ distribution curve revealed that every person in an endemic area lost about 10-15 IQ points, so that the socio-economic development of the community was severely affected.