Iodine deficiency is primarily caused by insufficient iodine intake through diet.
According to available data, iodine deficiency arises when individuals don't consume enough iodine in their food. While less common in the United States, it's a significant health issue in developing countries, particularly in regions far from coastlines or at high altitudes where access to iodine-rich seafood and dairy products is limited.
Here's a breakdown:
- Insufficient Dietary Intake: The most common cause is simply not consuming enough iodine-rich foods.
- Geographical Factors: People living inland or at high altitudes often have limited access to iodine-rich seafood, leading to deficiency.
