I read about using iodine to treat cystic mastitis in 1984 in Dr. Wright's Guide to Healing with Nutrition. Since I had excruciatingly painful fibrocystic breasts only briefly helped by high-dose vitamin E recommended by my doctor, I was drawn to iodine instantly. I just didn't have access to it. I didn't know when Lugol's became available over-the-counter, so the first iodine I used was Iosol, then Iodoral. The Universe kept sending me reminders -- FIND THE IODINE -- and finally I did. It was like coming home.
P.S. Thank you for asking.