Iodine status of the population in the WHO European Region (an abridged translation of selected sections of the WHO European report)

This review is an abridged translation of selected chapters of the report “Prevention and control of iodine deficiency in the WHO European Region: adapting to changes in diet and lifestyle”, published by the WHO Regional Office for Europe and the Iodine Global Network (IGN) in 2024. Iodine deficiency, especially mild iodine deficiency, remains a widespread problem in the WHO European Region. Since the last WHO report on iodine deficiency in the Region 15 years ago, much new data on iodine status has become available, especially for vulnerable populations. This review presents data on the iodine status of the population in 53 WHO European Member States (and Kosovo), the adverse effects of mild iodine deficiency and the effectiveness of salt iodization in preventing iodine deficiency. Mainly due to progress in salt iodization, the number of countries with iodine deficiency has decreased from 23 in 2003 to 2 in 2023. Mandatory salt iodization ensures adequate iodine intake in all population groups, with the exception of a few countries where these programs are poorly implemented. The positive cost-benefit ratio for preventing mild iodine deficiency in the European Region is plausible given the high prevalence of thyroid disease and the low cost of salt fortification programs.

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