Caoayan, Ilocos Sur - The Department of Health – Regional Office 1 conducted a 3 day orientation/training on the use of the Iodine Checker Machine from February 17-20, 2015 at Alad Bar and Resort, Caoayan, Ilocos –Participants of the training were Municipal Nutrition Action Officers (MNAOs) from the provinces of La Union, Iocos Norte and Ilocos Sur including and Ms. Nancy E. Paclos of NNC Region 1.

The training aims to introduce the Iodine Checker Machine as a monitoring tool in the implementation of the ASIN Law and to train MNAOs on the proper use and operation of the Iodine Checker Machine for accurate results.

Dra. Amelia Dumaoang, Medical Officer IV and Focal Person of the ASIN Program explained that MNAOs play a very important role in the ASIN Law particularly in monitoring compliance of the Law.

Ms. Felicidad Gan, DOST OIC-Provincial Director of the Province of Pangasinan lectured on the description, maintenance and troubleshooting of the Iodine Checker Machine. She also introduced the difference and importance of daily and quarterly calibrations and the preparation of reagents for the Iodine content testing. Participants had the opportunity to operate and use the Iodine Checker Machine.

Iodine Deficiency Disorder (IDD) which include stillbirth, abortion, mental and physical retardation and underdevelopment is recognized around the world as one of the major public health and nutrition problems that can be addressed easily and economically. With the training provided to MNAOs, they are expected to intensify advocacy on the importance of iodine in the body.(NEP)