Global Micronutrient Activities

CDC's Environmental Health Laboratory operates the Global Micronutrient Laboratory, which plays an active role in reducing the worldwide burden of micronutrient deficiencies, such as deficiencies in iodine, iron, or vitamin A. Billions of people around the world are affected by micronutrient deficiencies that may cause birth defects, learning disabilities, mental retardation, reduced immunity, blindness, poor work capacity, or premature death. The laboratory provides training and technical assistance on questions about laboratory analysis and field logistics in preparation for national nutrition surveys in countries such as Argentina, the Dominican Republic, Iraq, Kenya, Laos, Malawi, Nicaragua, Oman, Papua New Guinea, South Africa, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Yemen, and Zambia.