ABSTRACT
Background: Continuous monitoring of salt iodization to ensure the success of the Universal Salt Iodization (USI) program can be significantly strengthened by the use of a simple, safe, and rapid method of salt iodine estimation. This study assessed the validity of a new portable device, iCheck Iodine developed by the BioAnalyt GmbH to estimate the iodine content in salt. Materials and Methods: Validation of the device was conducted in the laboratory of the South Asia regional office of the International Council for Control of Iodine Deficiency Disorders (ICCIDD). The validity of the device was assessed using device specific indicators, comparison of iCheck Iodine device with the iodometric titration, and comparison between iodine estimation using 1 g and 10 g salt by iCheck Iodine using 116 salt samples procured from various small-, medium-, and large-scale salt processors across India. Results: The intra- and interassay imprecision for 10 parts per million (ppm), 30 ppm, and 50 ppm concentrations of iodized salt were 2.8%, 6.1%, and 3.1%, and 2.4%, 2.2%, and 2.1%, respectively. Interoperator imprecision was 6.2%, 6.3%, and 4.6% for the salt with iodine concentrations of 10 ppm, 30 ppm, and 50 ppm respectively. The correlation coefficient between measurements by the two methods was 0.934 and the correlation coefficient between measurements using 1 g of iodized salt and 10 g of iodized salt by the iCheck Iodine device was 0.983. Conclusions: The iCheck Iodine device is reliable and provides a valid method for the quantitative estimation of the iodine content of iodized salt fortified with potassium iodate in the field setting and in different types of salt.
ABSTRACT
Objectives: This paper presents the implementation of computerized Management Information System (MIS) in Salt Department, the nodal agency in India for regulation and control of manufacturer, supply and distribution of iodized salt, to strengthen production end salt iodization. Methods: The MIS was launched in March 2012 with the joint action of Salt Department and the non-governmental development agencies GAIN, MI, UNICEF, and ICCIDD through the platform of National Coalition for Sustained Optimal Iodine Intake. Web based MIS was installed in all offices of the Salt Department with its data centre located in salt Department Headquarter in Jaipur. The Salt MIS has modules on distribution and supply of salt, salt quality management, salt testing laboratories, and other functionalities of Salt Department. In the second phase, trainings of personnel from Salt Department were conducted for mainstreaming the use of MIS. Results: 81% of the 203 identified personnel were trained in MIS. All 104 factory offices and 30 out of 91% of 33 laboratories started using MIS for monthly reports. Real time information is available on production figures, quality of iodized salt and movement of iodized salt. Linking information to decision making process facilitated regulatory actions in salt producing pockets. Conclusions: Successful implementation of MIS in the Salt Department through the coordinated efforts of partner agencies resulted in improved functioning of Salt Department. Effective monitoring of iodized salt production, movement and distribution resulted in strengthening of production end salt iodization and improved access to quality iodized salt to consumers.
ABSTRACT
Objectives: India was one of the first countries to introduce salt iodization. This presentation reviews the national efforts towards universal salt iodization (USI) in India, documents achievements and progress, and highlights key challenges in programme implementation. Methods: The Salt Department of the Government of India and its development partners have made concerted efforts to improve availability, access and use of adequately iodized salt. Results: National and state level advocacy meetings were carried out to ensure high political commitment and prioritization of the USI programme. The National Coalition for Sustained Iodine Intake was launched to improve the overall programme management and coordination. The technical capacity of salt producers was enhanced and salt wholesalers and retailers were mapped, sensitized and equipped with tools and skills to procure only adequately iodized salt. A state-of-the-art management information system was launched to improve the efficiency in monitoring the flow of iodized salt. In addition, awareness and communication activities were scaled up to generate demand for iodized salt. As a result, the national household coverage of adequately iodized salt increased from 51% in 2005 to 71% in 2009. However, data indicate a clear urban-rural and rich-poor differential, leaving some of the most disadvantaged populations vulnerable to iodine deficiency. Conclusions: An evidence-based, well-defined strategy will be necessary to reach the last 30% of households, which are are likely to be least accessible and most socio-economically vulnerable. Both national and state level policies should mainstream the use of adequately iodized salt in feeding programmes for the benefit of all.