Noting that "Iodine deficiency is considered the most important preventable cause of brain damage by the World Health Organisation, the United Nations Children's Fund and the International Council for the Control of Iodine Deficiency Disorders," the Bangkok Post editorialized March 18 calling for renewed efforts in Thailand.

"It is evident that in spite of impressive progress in health and development, Thailand needs to do more to ensure the consumption of iodised salt.

"The elimination of iodine deficiency disorders will need the combined efforts of multiple sectors. In addition to the leadership of the Ministry of Public Health, the Ministries of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Industry and Finance among others, need to work in concert to ensure that all salt for human and animal consumption in Thailand is iodised.

"In addition, civil society, professional bodies, child development and education specialists, nutritionists, physicians, nurses and public health specialists need to play an active role to ensure that no man, woman or child in Thailand is deprived of this vital micronutrient.

"Remarkable work has been carried out in Thailand by the Ministry of Public Health, other government organisations and NGO networks in the control of tobacco and unsafe alcohol consumption through legislation. Similar legislation for mandatory iodisation of all salt for human and animal consumption, expansion of iodised salt production, effective monitoring and quality control systems for iodised salt accompanied by public awareness will ensure that adequately iodised salt is available for all persons living in Thailand."