RBATF-7 and NNC-7 Celebrate ASIN Law

Now on its 24th year, the Regional Bantay Asin Task Force Central Visayas (RBATF)-7 through its secretariat, the National Nutrition Council Central Visayas (NNC)-7 celebrates ASIN Law or Republic Act 8172.

RA 8172 is an act promoting salt iodization nationwide.

“Kani siya nga balaod gipagawas gyud ni siya para mag address sa atong problem sa IDD. Iodine is a very important mineral para sa atong metabolism (This law was implemented to address the problems of IDD. Iodine is a very important mineral for our body’s metabolism),” said Dr. Parolita Mission, Director of NNC-7.

IDD is the lack of the trace element called iodine, an essential nutrient in our diet. Lack of iodine can cause abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland known as goiter.

Last December 18, a press conference was held to remind people to use “Saktong Iodine sa Asin” in all their cooking and food preparations to prevent Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDD).

Despite the decreasing trend for the past 24 years, IDD still represent as a health threat worldwide.

Based on a survey, adolescents (between 13-19 years old) in Region-7 had 21.6% media UIE, 25.1% among 20-59 years old and 26.2% among pregnant women. The said data simply shows that deficiency still exists.

Meanwhile, RBATF-7 is a sub-committee of the Regional Nutrition Committee and is composed of government and non-government agencies.

RBATF-7 reminds the public to be on their toes to use only proper iodized salt regularly to prevent IDD. (MLC)