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Optimizing Iodine Sufficiency in the Community and Among Pregnant Women: Rationale, Monitoring Strategies, and Supplementation Policies—A Policy Brief
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L Mehran    , A Amouzegar , F Hosseinpanah , F Azizi |
| Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Disorders, Research institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, , azizi@endocrine.ac.ir |
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Abstract: (190 Views) |
Iodine deficiency is one of the most significant public health challenges, with serious consequences for the physical and mental development of future generations. In Iran, through extensive national research and the subsequent successful implementation of the "National Universal Salt Iodization Program" during the 1980s and 1990s, a major step was taken to address iodine deficiency. By 1996, with over 95% of households using iodized salt and a median urinary iodine concentration (UIC) of schoolchildren exceeding 100 µg/L, Iran was recognized as a country free of iodine deficiency disorders. However, findings from the sixth national monitoring survey (2023-2024) revealed that while the iodine status of the general population (schoolchildren aged 8-10 years) remains optimal (median UIC ~133 µg/L), pregnant women—despite supplementation and the use of iodized salt—often face moderate iodine deficiency (median UIC ~133 µg/L, with 61% of women below 150 µg/L). Given that iodine deficiency during pregnancy can have serious consequences (such as fetal neuropsychological impairment and impaired child growth), it is essential to strengthen policies and operational measures to preserve the achievements of the national iodine deficiency disorders elimination program, expand monitoring of iodized salt, and ensure adequate iodine intake in vulnerable groups, particularly through supplementation during pregnancy. |
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| Keywords: Iodine, Iodine deficiency, Pregnancy, Iodized salt, National monitoring, Supplementation |
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Full-Text [PDF 662 kb]
(126 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Special |
Subject:
Endocrinology
Received: 2025/10/11 | Accepted: 2025/12/27 | Published: 2025/03/30
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