Iodine status in relation to iodized salt consumption by the adult population of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

Background: Iodine is an essential micronutrient required by the human body. While about 80% of households in Pakistan reportedly use iodized salt, localized data, specifically from regions like Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) remain limited. The area's geography and mineral-depleted soils may contribute to persistent iodine deficiency in the population. Aim: To evaluate the iodine status of young residents of GB. Methods: A total of 500 households were screened for iodized salt use. From these, 200 healthy adult participants (100 rural, 100 urban) were selected. Socio-demographic, anthropometric, and dietary data were collected. Spot urine samples were analyzed to determine urinary iodine concentration (UIC). Results: Iodized salt use was universal in urban households and 91.6% in rural households. Significant differences were observed between rural and urban groups in family structure, household size, education level, and body mass index (p < 0.05), while other variables were not significant. Mean UIC did not differ significantly between groups (p > 0.05). Adequate iodine status was found in 50% of rural and 58% of urban participants. Among iodized salt users, 60.3% had adequate iodine levels. In contrast, 71.4% of non-iodized salt users showed moderate, and 19% severe, iodine deficiency. Conclusion: Despite high iodized salt coverage, nearly half of the participants exhibited iodine deficiency. Continued public health efforts are needed to strengthen iodized salt access and address residual deficiency, especially in rural areas.