The problem of goitre prevention in Yugoslavia.

The study of goitre in Yugoslavia has been actively prosecuted since 1923, with some interruptions, and it is estimated that some 1,400,000 persons suffer from the disease. The use of iodized salt (5 mg of potassium iodide per kg of salt) as a prophylactic measure was begun in 1937 but was interrupted from 1941 to 1948. In 1946 it became evident that goitre and hyperthyroidism were on the increase, and the medical authorities agreed to devote particular attention to the problem. It was also agreed that a goitre centre should be set up in each of the Yugoslav Republics. These centres should carry out surveys among newborn children, schoolchildren, and army recruits. Hospitals and pathological institutes should compile statistics on diseases of the thyroid. However, the most urgent need in goitre prevention is for adequate supplies of iodized salt, containing 10 mg of potassium iodide per kg-the level recommended by the Swiss Goitre Commission. This presents a considerable technical and economic problem since, while it is estimated that Yugoslavia requires some 197,500 tons of salt per year, only 18,000 tons of iodized salt and 62,500 tons of non-iodized marine salt can be produced within the country. The author concludes by emphasizing the need for further research, particularly with the use of radioactive iodine.