Iodine deficiency affects 2 billion people worldwide and is the leading preventable cause of intellectual and developmental disabilities. According to public health experts, iodization of salt, may be the world's simplest and most cost-effective measure available to improve health. Iodized salt is beneficial to the general public, however there is growing evidence that iodized salt may not provide a complete solution for pregnant and breast feeding women. Published on 30 October, 2015.