Iodine Deficiency Disorders are a worldwide major public health problem. These affect a large segment of populations in all continents of our planet and have been with us from generation. As per information available, more than 1.5 billion people all over the world are at risk of IDD.
Important objectives and components of NIDDCP include:
Consumption of iodated salt has been established as the best and simplest way to prevent and control IDD. Thus the main strategy of the programme is the enhancement of production and supply of iodated salt.
The programme commenced in 1986 under the name of Natonal Goitre Control Programme. In 1992, 'National Goitre Control Programme' was renamed as 'National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme'. As inferred from previous surveys, 6 districts of Andhra Pradesh are endemic to Iodine Deficiency Disorders. These districts are: Srikakulam, Visakhapatnam, East Godavari, West Godavari, Krishna and Nellore. Therefore, NIDDCP is currently implemented in these 6 districts.