[Solution of Iodine deficiency in the Czech Republic - history and current situation20 years of work of prof. Václav Zamrazil for Commission for the solution of Iodine deficiency].

Diseases caused by Iodine deficit are preventable. Inter resort Commission for the solution of Iodine deficiency (MKJD) at State Institute for Health (SZU) in Prague has been taking effective measures which satisfied requirements of the Principles for sustainable elimination of diseases caused by Iodine deficiency ICCD WHO: 96 % of households is using iodized salt, average Iodine content is 25 mg/1 kg of salt. Data from studies show ioduria less 100 mcg/l in only 9 per cent of seniors, 5 % of children 7-10 years, 3 % of children 10-12 years. Under 50 mcg only 1 % of children 10-12 years. Median of iodurias is below 300 mcg/l (seniors 185 mcg/l, children 7-10 years 277 mcg/l, children 10-12 years 252 mcg/l). We satisfy 8 of 10 indicators of Principles for Sustainable elimination of diseases caused by Iodine deficiency. Results of screening for congenital hypothyroidism are in keeping with sufficient iodine intake in newborns. Unsatisfactory situation however persist in expectant and breast feeding mothers 16 % [11] 6 % [10] of women included in the respective studies had ioduria below 50 mpg/l. Milk and dairy produce became a rich dietary source of Iodine as cattle feeds are fortified with Iodine. No part of observed human population is exposed Iodine doses higher than 17 mcg/kg. Next target for prevention will be achieving optimal iodine concentration in milk and improvement of iodine saturation of expectant and nursing mothers. Integral part is the monitoring of iodine saturation of population.Key words: dietary exposition - dietary sources of iodine - Inter resort commission for elimination of iodine deficit - iodine deficiency - iodine supply - iodized salt - ioduria.