Randomized clinical trial comparing different iodine interventions in school children.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Nutrition Science
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Iodine deficiency remains a global public health concern, particularly affecting children's cognitive development and thyroid function.
• School-aged children are a vulnerable population susceptible to the effects of inadequate iodine intake.
• Assessing the efficacy of different iodine supplementation strategies is crucial for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of three different iodine interventions in school children.
• To evaluate the impact of controlled iodized salt versus market-sourced iodized salt and oil capsules on iodine status.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving school children aged 8-10 years.
• Three groups received: 1) researcher-provided iodized salt (25 ppm), 2) market-purchased iodized salt, or 3) market-purchased iodized salt plus iodine oil capsules.
• Thyroid volume, goiter prevalence, and urinary iodine levels were measured over 18 months.

Main Results:

• Abnormal thyroid volumes decreased significantly by 12 months in groups receiving controlled iodized salt or iodine capsules.
• Market-sourced iodized salt intervention showed a slower normalization of thyroid size.
• Urinary iodine levels increased in all groups, exceeding 200 microg/L by 6 months.

Conclusions:

• Controlled iodized salt (25 ppm) effectively prevented iodine deficiency in school children over 18 months.
• Market-sourced iodized salt, with variable iodine content, resulted in delayed normalization of thyroid size.
• Consistent and adequate iodine intake is essential for maintaining normal thyroid function in children.