Iodine deficiency among thyroid conference participants in Austria

Several studies have raised concern about the re-emergence of iodine deficiency in different countries despite longstanding salt iodization programs. In Austria, no standardized government-led urinary iodine monitoring has been conducted since 1999.

To assess iodine status using urinary iodine concentration (UIC) and to estimate iodine intake in attendees of a thyroid-focused scientific conference in Austria.

In this cross-sectional study, spot urine samples and dietary data were collected from participants of the Austrian Thyroid Dialogue 2024. The UIC was measured by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Iodine intake was estimated using a 24‑h dietary self-assessment tool. Iodine status was classified according to World Health Organization (WHO) criteria.

In this study 91 participants were included. Median UIC was 77.6 µg/L (range: 11-904 µg/L), below the adequacy threshold of 100 µg/L, indicating insufficient iodine status. No significant differences in UIC were observed according to sex, age group, iodized salt use, or vegetarian diet. Mean estimated iodine intake was 61.0 µg/day (median: 48.8 µg/day), substantially below the recommended intake of 150 µg/day; 85.7% of participants had an intake below the average requirement (107 µg/day). No significant correlation was found between estimated iodine intake and UIC.

Even in a highly health-aware cohort, iodine intake and iodine status were largely inadequate. A comprehensive nationwide urinary iodine assessment according to WHO standards is urgently needed to determine the current iodine status in Austria and to critically evaluate whether existing iodization strategies are adequately implemented or require modification.