Situation analysis of salt iodization and iodine status in Angola

Iodine Global Network and GroundWork

September 2016 – Report Release, Luanda, Angola

The Iodine Global Network (IGN) has classified Angola’s iodine status as “insufficient” and has estimated that approximately 520,000 Angolan infants are at risk of iodine deficiency. Though the existing data sources indicate that iodine is a severe public health problem in Angola, there has not been a comprehensive and recent assessment of iodine status nor of the iodized salt sector. In order to compile all available data related to salt iodization program and iodine nutrition in Angola, IGN and GroundWork have collaborated undertaken a situation analysis. As documented in the report, the salt iodization program in Angola has made considerable strides over the past decade. Angola has established legislation and standards, a coordinating body, and promotional and awareness raising materials. Moreover, according to the existing survey and monitoring data, the majority of salt in Angola is iodized, although the adequacy of iodized salt is unknown. To build upon and sustain recent advances in Angola’s salt iodization program and expand the supply and coverage of adequately iodized salt, efforts are needed to review and strengthen the salt supply chain and generate updated evidence on the status of iodine nutrition in the population. Through these efforts, Angola can further its efforts to grow its domestic salt iodization industry and reduce iodine deficiency and its disorders.