Question

Cretinism is a birth defect that can result if a pregnant woman has inadequate intake of ________.

A. Iron.
B. Zinc.
C. Iodine.
D. Calcium.

Answer 1

Cretinism is a birth defect that can result from inadequate iodine intake during pregnancy. Iodine is necessary for the normal development of the brain and nervous system in infants. Severe iodine deficiency can lead to stunted growth, intellectual disability, and other physical abnormalities.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cretinism is a birth defect that can result if a pregnant woman has inadequate intake of iodine. Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones, which are important for the normal development of the brain and nervous system in infants. Severe iodine deficiency during pregnancy can lead to cretinism, a condition characterized by stunted growth, intellectual disability, and other physical abnormalities.

Answer 2

Cretinism is a birth defect that can result if a pregnant woman has inadequate intake of Iodine

Therefore, correct answer is C. Iodine

Step-by-step explanation:

Inadequate intake of iodine during pregnancy can lead to cretinism, a birth defect affecting the thyroid gland and resulting in impaired physical and mental development.

Cretinism is primarily associated with maternal iodine deficiency, a crucial element for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. The thyroid hormones play a critical role in fetal brain development and overall growth. Without sufficient iodine, the thyroid gland is unable to produce these hormones adequately, leading to cretinism in the newborn.

This condition can result in intellectual disabilities, stunted growth, and developmental delays. Iron, zinc, and calcium deficiencies do not typically lead to cretinism, making iodine the essential nutrient for preventing this birth defect.

Therefore, correct answer is C. Iodine