Iodine and Selenium Distribution In The Local Environment Of Selected Villages In Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

The level of iodine and selenium in soil, Vernonia amygdalina, cassava tubers and drinking water samples were determined for Nanka community (an erosion devastated area) and Oba community to assess their risk to Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDD). Results show that total concentrations of soil total iodine and selenium were higher in Oba compared to Nanka. Also, the total concentrations of iodine and selenium in Vernonia amygdalina are higher for Oba compared to Nanka. Mean concentration of water total iodine (105.25±10.44µg/L) value from Oba is significantly higher (p<0.05) compared to the mean value of water samples from Nanka (89.8±6.42µg/L). The concentrations of iodine and selenium in cassava tubers from both communities are low (?98.4 µg/L for iodine and ?0.16ppm for selenium). Cassava, contains goitrogens, which exacerbate iodine deficiency problem is a major staple food in both communities. The incidence of IDD is multi-factorial, involving trace element deficiencies’ and other factors such as poor nutrition and goitrogens in food stuff. The study was aimed at assessing the level of iodine and selenium intake of the communities and the risk of the communities to IDD.

Keywords: Iodine, Selenium, IDD, Soil, Cassava, Water, Goitrogens, Vernonia amygdalina