Correct option is B
The correct answer is (b).
Introduction
Iodine is a crucial micronutrient required by the human body for the synthesis of thyroid hormones.
An insufficient dietary intake of iodine directly impairs the thyroid gland's functioning.
In an attempt to absorb more iodine from the blood, the thyroid gland hypertrophies, leading to the physical manifestation known globally as goitre.
Information Booster
- The thyroid gland is located at the base of the neck and uses iodine to produce hormones like Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3).
- These hormones regulate the body's metabolic rate, heart and digestive functions, muscle control, and brain development.
- When iodine is deficient, the pituitary gland secretes excess Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH).
- The continuous stimulation by TSH causes the thyroid gland to enlarge abnormally, forming a goitre.
- Iodine deficiency during pregnancy can lead to severe neurodevelopmental deficits in the child, known as cretinism.
- To combat this widespread public health issue, the universal iodization of common dietary salt has been implemented globally.
- Option A (Solitary thyroid nodules): These are distinct lumps in the thyroid gland. While some can be related to prolonged deficiency, they are often benign growths with varied, non-deficiency-related causes.
- Option C (Thyroiditis): This refers to the inflammation of the thyroid gland, typically caused by autoimmune conditions (like Hashimoto's disease) or viral infections, not primarily by lack of iodine.
- Option D (Thyroid cancer): This is a malignancy of the thyroid tissue caused by genetic mutations or radiation exposure. While some goitres may harbor cancer, iodine deficiency itself is not the direct primary cause of thyroid cancer.
English
10 Questions
20 Marks
12 Mins
