New research published in the Medical Journal of Australia by ICCIDD vice chair and Regional Coordinator Dr. Cres Eastman, says the iodine deficiency identified is causing neuro development damage to the population. Of particular concern, he added, in an interview with ABC News, is the impact on the health of pregnant women and their babies.

He urged that pregnant women also receive supplemental iodine beyond the iodized salt they consume and bread products now required to contain iodized salt.