[Nutritional iodine supply in Germany. Results of preventive measures]

Germany is an iodine deficiency area with endemic goitre. The prophylactic procedures which have been initiated gradually since 1983, were different between the eastern and western part of Germany. In East Germany iodine supply could be improved by "mandatory prophylaxis" until 1989. However, after the reunification of Germany and the adaption of the "voluntary principle", the iodine intake decreased again. In December 1993, new regulations concerning iodized salt became effective (so called "2nd decree") combined with a relaxation of the declaration of duty. This relaxation considerably contributed to the significant increase in iodized salt utilisation in food production. The rise of iodine content of food and breast milk, the higher iodine intake with food, the decrease of fetal thyroid volume and the increase in renal iodine excretion are clear indicators of a better iodine supply. However, the desired target figures have not been obtained yet.