Iodine deficiency is a problem for approximately 350 million Indians. In developed nations, most are able to get iodine through iodized salt in their diets or by taking supplements if necessary. However, in India, many crops are grown in iodine-deprived soil. Also, iodized salt is not widely available in rural areas, and supplements are often too expensive for those who need them most.

Iodine deficiency can cause health problems such as goitre, an enlargement of the thyroid gland, and other thyroid conditions that can lead to breast cancer or fibroids. Iodine is especially important for pregnant women, who generally require double the amount than is typically needed. Pregnant women with iodine deficiencies can give birth to children with developmental problems or neurological conditions such as cretinism.

Iodine does not have to be ingested for one to receive the nutritional benefits. It can also be absorbed through the skin. This was the idea behind the Life Saving Dot, a bindi designed by the Grey for Good organization and the Neelvasant Medical Foundation and Research Center.

The bindi has religious significance for Hindus, but Indian women often wear it as a fashion statement regardless of religious affiliation. Bindis can be applied with colored powder, but many now wear sticker bindis, which come in endless shapes, colors, and sizes. The Life Saving Dot looks exactly like a real bindi, yet doubles as an iodine patch.

This bindi slowly releases the necessary amount of iodine, 150-200 micrograms, over the course of the day. It fits easily into the daily routine of any woman who normally wears a bindi, making it a convenient source of iodine. These bindis have been put into circulation by medical facilities in 100 villages and have been distributed to about 30,000 Indian women. Women receive a month’s supply, which costs 10 rupees or 16 cents.

While the Life Saving Dot shows success, there are concerns that the iodine solution will evaporate and leave very little to be absorbed by the body, especially in the harsh sunlight. Therefore, they may need to carry a larger dose than the standard 200 micrograms. Many tests will need to be done before it can be certain that the bindis are effective. These include estimations for urinary iodine, radio-iodine uptakes and thyroid hormones.

Even if the bindis do not make a significant impact on iodine deficiency in India, the organization has already achieved another goal. They wanted to bring more attention to the issue of iodine deficiency, as many do not understand its importance. In order to reach more women, Grey for Good is beginning more widespread distribution efforts, and in time, the Life Saving Dot could help end iodine deficiency in India.

– Jane Harkness

Sources: About Religion, GOOD Magazine, NPR, Scroll, Times of India
Photo: Fashion Lady