Enlargement of which gland occurs in Goitre, a disease caused by iodine deficiency?

Enlargement of the [A] Thyroid gland occurs in Goitre, a disease caused by iodine deficiency. The thyroid gland requires iodine to produce thyroid hormones, essential for regulating metabolism. In iodine-deficient regions, the thyroid enlarges in an attempt to trap more iodine from the bloodstream, resulting in the characteristic swelling known as goitre.

Despite the enlargement, the thyroid gland’s hormone production may remain inadequate due to insufficient iodine availability, leading to hypothyroidism. This condition can manifest as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and other symptoms associated with thyroid hormone deficiency.

Treatment for goitre often involves iodine supplementation, which helps restore thyroid hormone production and reduces gland enlargement. In severe cases, additional thyroid hormone replacement therapy may be necessary to address hypothyroidism. However, prevention through dietary iodine intake, such as through iodized salt or iodine-rich foods, remains the most effective strategy to combat goitre caused by iodine deficiency.