Work

Household Consumption of Adequately Iodized Salt: A Multi-Country Analysis of Socioeconomic Disparities

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Despite global efforts to promote universal salt iodization, iodine deficiency remains a public health issue in developing countries. OBJECTIVES: This study assessed the proportion and sociodemographic characteristics of households consuming adequately iodized salt in 49 low- and middle-income countries. METHODS: Data from DHS surveys of 49 low- and middle-income countries (2005-2021) were used to analyze household iodized salt prevalence. R version 4.0 was employed for statistical analyses. A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted to estimate overall and regional prevalence. RESULTS: = 100.0%). The East Asia and Pacific and the Europe and Central Asia regions showed high consumption rates of 87.6% and 87.7%, respectively, while Latin America and the Caribbean presented a significantly lower proportion of 30.8%. CONCLUSIONS: The study highlights the need for enhanced public health strategies to increase iodized salt consumption, especially in low-income and rural households. Addressing disparities in access, education, and affordability is crucial for improving iodine intake and preventing deficiency disorders, particularly among vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women.

Source: Nutrients

DOI: 10.3390/nu16213787

Authors: Daniela M. Sáez-Ramírez, Horacio Chacon-Torrico, Akram Hernández-Vásquez

Institutions: Universidad Científica del Sur, Universidad Continental, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola

Language: English

Topic: Thyroid Disorders and Treatments

Subfield: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Zero hunger, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,296