Evaluation of iodine salt intake, salt storage, and urinary iodine among the households in Markazi Province, Iran

BACKGROUND: Iodine deficiency is known as a major nutritional health problem in Iran. The aim of this study was to evaluate iodine salt intake, salt storage, and urinary iodine in households of Markazi Province, Iran, in 2014. METHODS: In this cross-sectional analytical study, 440 households of 11 cities in Markazi Province in 2014 were selected through a multistage random sampling. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information about the type of salt used and awareness about salt storage. Parameters of salts were measured by taking the samples from household salt. Simultaneously, urinary iodine was measured via samples from the elementary students in the household. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. RESULTS: Of 440 households, 225 households (58.0%) used iodized refined salt. Approximately, 60.0% of households were aware of the correct way of salt storage. The mean urinary iodine concentration (UIC) of children was 19.2 ± 18.3 μg/l. The average iodine concentration in household salts was 29.3 ± 3.8 ppm and only half of the salt-producing companies had iodine levels above 30 ppm. The average of salt heavy metals at the level of production and consumption was at a standard level. CONCLUSION: The average iodine concentration of salts was less than the standard level. Therefore, in the absence of proper monitoring of the cycle of production and supply of iodized salt, there is a possibility of recurrent iodine deficiency complications in Markazi Province. Enhancing public awareness about salt storage for maintaining the quantity and quality of iodine is recommended.