1. Plural of cretinism; instances or cases of a condition characterized by severe physical and mental underdevelopment caused by iodine deficiency or thyroid dysfunction.
Usage: medical/clinical term; now often replaced by 'congenital hypothyroidism' in modern medical practice

Examples

• The public health campaign aimed to prevent cretinisms through iodine supplementation programs.
• Historical records document numerous cases of cretinisms in regions with iodine-poor soil.
• Modern screening has dramatically reduced the incidence of cretinisms in developed countries.
• Early intervention can prevent the severe developmental delays associated with cretinisms.