Kiwanis clubs from Pullman, Washington, and Moscow, Idaho, are
fighting Iodine Deficiency Disorders throughout the world

Kiwanis International has an international service project to eliminate iodine deficiency in the world by the year 2000.  More than $35 million has been raised so far and the goal is to raise $75 million by the year 2000.

Iodine is a natural component of thyroid hormones which affect the function of the muscles, liver, heart and kidneys and it is necessary for proper brain development during pregnancy.  Iodine deficiency may cause miscarriage or irreversible, severe physical and mental retardation.  Children can suffer speech and hearing defects, stunted physical growth, and delayed motor development.  Adults experience severe energy loss, paralysis and swelling of the thyroid, called goiter.   One third of the world's population (more than 1.5 billion) suffer from iodine deficiency.

It is estimated that one nickel, just five cents, is needed to help one child in their lifetime.  Kiwanis International and UNICEF have been disbursing the funds and more than 12 million children have already been saved, however, 28 million are still in danger.  Many of the countries have used the funds to build local iodine salt plants and to continue providing the iodine needed to prevent future deficiency problems.  This major world health problem can be eliminated forever with help from each of us.

We would appreciate support from any individual, business, or club in the Palouse area that would like to help us in eliminating IDD from the world.   Every nickel counts and is used towards our goal.

For more information, we would gladly come and speak to any group about IDD.

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Updated November 18, 2007