Project Reference No.: 01-2013
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Project Reference No.: 01-2013
Project Title:Iodine status: is there a public health issue on the island of Ireland?
1.Objective/Knowledge Gap
The aim of the project is to investigate whether iodine deficiency is an emerging public health nutrition issue on the island of Ireland.
2.Background
Iodine deficiency was a serious health issue half a century ago and was thought to be eradicated by the introduction of artificial feed to milking cows that was rich in iodine. The public were encouraged drink milk. Evidence from the UK indicates that iodine deficiency may be an emerging public health issue for women. Iodine deficiency has substantial effects on growth and development and is the most common cause of preventable mental impairment worldwide. It is particularly important for brain development during pregnancy.
A cross sectional study of approximately 800 14-15 years olds collected data on dietary intake and iodine status (urinary iodine excretion) (1). It found that 51% were classed with mild iodine deficiency, 16% with moderate deficiency and 1% with severe iodine deficiency. Prevalence of iodine deficiency was highest in Belfast (85%, n=135). Low iodine status was associated with a low intake of milk (p=0・03) which is the main dietary source, and high intake of eggs (p=0・02). Interestingly organic milk which has grown in popularity contains 42% less iodine than non-organic milk (2).
In Australia and New Zealand iodisation of salt used for the production of bread has been introduced and has resulted in improved iodine status among the population.
3.Approach
The research approach will employ quantitative methodology. safefood are open to suggestions on the detail of the approach. The approach chosen must view the aim from a population perspective rather than ata clinical level.
4.Technical Specification
a)Explanation and justification of the proposed study methodology
b)Data Handling and reporting
c)Quality Assurance
(a)Explanation and justification of the proposed study methodology
A full justification and rationale for the proposed methodology and analytical approach will be required.
(b)Data Handling and Reporting
1. An interim report (electronic and hardcopy) containing a summary of the findings to date will be submitted to safefood at six monthly intervals of the research.
2. The contractor is responsible for collating all results and a final report will be submitted to safefoodon completion of the study.
3. All forms, documentation and electronic files must be retained by the contractor until further notice from safefood in case of issues arising after the completion of the research.
(c) Quality Assurance
- Ethical approval will be an essential component to the approach where human interventions are involved.
- Any laboratory analysis must be conducted by an accredited laboratory.
- safefood will visit the contractors during the course of the survey to assess how the work is being carried out.
5.Proposed Activities/Deliverables
- The proposed activities and deliverables will be dependent on the methodology proposed and will include
- Submission on a 6 monthly basis of a summary
- Submission of a final report to be submitted to safefood within the 18 month study period
6.Evaluation of Tenders
Tender bids will be evaluated according to the quality of proposals and applicants using the following criteria:
Quality of the proposal:
Anticipated deliverables;
Research method;
Value for money;
Potential for application;
Work plan, including the overall timeframe.
Quality of Applicants:
Experience in subject area;
Existing facilities;
Quality Assurance and Quality Control measures in place.
7.Duration of Project
Estimated duration of the project: Maximum 18 months. A detailed timescale of research should be submitted by each applicant.
8.Scientific Aspects
Potential applicants are encouraged to contact the Research Administration Office at safefood for further information about this research project.
9. References
1.Vanderpump MP, Lazarus JH, Smyth PP, Laurberg P, Holder RL, Boelaert K, et al. Iodine status of UK schoolgirls: a cross-sectional survey. Lancet. 2011;377(9782):2007-12. Epub 2011/06/07.
2.Bath SC, Button S, Rayman MP. Iodine concentration of organic and conventional milk: implications for iodine intake. British Journal of Nutrition. 2012;107(07):935-40.
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