Iodine deficiency French, the term "crétin des Alpes" also became current, since the condition was observed in remote valleys of the Alps in particular. The word "cretin" appeared in English in 1779. While reporting recent progress towards overcoming iodine-deficiency disorders worldwide, "The Lancet" noted: "According to World Health Organization, in 2007, nearly 2 billion individuals had insufficient iodine intake, a third being of school age." A conclusion was made that the single most preventable cause of intellectual disability is that of iodine deficiency. There is preliminary evidence that iodine deficiency enhances the sensitivity of breast tissue to estrogen. In rats treated with
Vitamin A deficiency to retinol varies from person to person and bioavailability of carotene in food varies. In addition to dietary problems, other causes of VAD are known. Iron deficiency can affect vitamin A uptake; other causes include fibrosis, pancreatic insufficiency, inflammatory bowel disease, and small-bowel bypass surgery. Excess alcohol consumption can deplete vitamin A, and a stressed liver may be more susceptible to vitamin A toxicity. People who consume large amounts of alcohol should seek medical advice before taking vitamin A supplements. In general, people should also seek medical advice before taking vitamin A supplements if they have any condition associated with