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Croatia has reached iodine sufficiency.
Z Kusić1, S A Novosel, N Dabelić
1University Hospital Sestre Milosrdnice, Department of Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia. zvonko.kusic@zg.hinet.hr
Journal of Endocrinological Investigation
|December 13, 2003
Summary
Croatia achieved iodine sufficiency in schoolchildren six years after salt iodination regulations. Urinary iodine levels significantly improved, indicating successful public health intervention for iodine intake.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Endocrinology
- Nutrition Science
Background:
- Iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) pose a significant global health challenge.
- Salt iodination is a primary strategy for IDD prevention.
- Croatia implemented salt iodination regulations in 1996.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of salt iodination on iodine intake among Croatian schoolchildren.
- To evaluate thyroid volume and urinary iodine excretion in the target population.
- To determine if iodine sufficiency has been achieved post-regulation.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 927 schoolchildren (aged 6-12) across four Croatian regions.
- Sonographic measurement of thyroid volume.
- Analysis of urinary iodine excretion (UIE) medians.
- Quality control of iodized salt from production to consumption.
Main Results:
- Thyroid volumes were within normal ranges for iodine-replete children.
- Significant increases in median UIE were observed across all studied regions between 1991-2002.
- Overall median UIE reached 14.0 microg/dl, indicating iodine sufficiency.
- Croatian salt was confirmed to be adequately iodized.
Conclusions:
- The salt iodination program in Croatia has successfully improved iodine intake and achieved iodine sufficiency in schoolchildren.
- Public health initiatives targeting salt iodination are effective in addressing iodine deficiency.
- Continued monitoring is recommended to maintain iodine sufficiency.