Suboptimal Urinary Iodine Level in Pregnant Women from Perimarine Area of Romania

Objective: Maintaining adequate iodine intake during pregnancy contributes to achieving a viable fetus with proper neuropsychological development. Because of the lack of national data regarding the assessment of iodine status in pregnant women-conducted through urinary iodine determination in perimarine regions, geographical areas characterized by sufficient iodine intake-this study was undertaken. Materials and Methods: The study evaluated iodine status in a cohort of pregnant women from southeastern region of Romania, perimarine area, assessing iodine intake indicators and the severity of iodine deficiency levels. Results: Iodine nutritional status, based on urinary iodine concentration values adjusted to urinary creatinine, was insufficient in 47.3% of pregnancies. Moderate iodine deficiency was found in 43.2%, while severe iodine deficiency was identified in only 4.1%. Conclusions: Although this is a non-endemic region for iodine deficiency disorders, the perimarine area of Romania presents a moderate iodine deficiency among special population groups such as pregnant women. This situation necessitates iodine intake adaptation and periodic monitoring to prevent maternal-fetal thyroid dysfunctions.