Iodized salt for iodine deficiency disorders. A systematic review

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#goiter #humans #iodine #sodium-chloride-dietary

Iodized salt for iodine deficiency disorders. A systematic review

Clar et al., 2002 | Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am | Systematic Review

Citation

Clar Christine, Wu Taixiang, ... Li Ping. Iodized salt for iodine deficiency disorders. A systematic review. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am. 2002-Sep;31(3):681-98

Abstract

The results suggest that iodized salt is an effective means of improving iodine status, and support the current endeavors to achieve universal salt iodization. Variations in the iodine levels in the salt suggest that particular care must be taken to ensure the quality of the production and storage of iodized salt. It appears that in small children salt intake may not be high enough to guarantee adequate iodine levels through the use of iodized salt. While the studies provided no information about unwanted side effects with the use of iodized salt, most studies did not specifically consider adverse effects. so inferences about side effects remain weak. In conclusion, health policymakers and other decision makers require high-quality studies to measure the effect of iodized salt in comparison with other forms of iodine supplementation. These should be large studies lasting at least two years. Investigators should not retstrict their outcomes to goiter rates and urinary iodine excretion, but should include the other outcome measures specified above, such as mental and physical development in children, mortality, and others. Investigators should pay special attention to adverse effects and their report in primary studies, and should assess children (including very young children who may have a relatively low salt consumption) separately from adults.

Key Findings

Investigators should pay special attention to adverse effects and their report in primary studies, and should assess children (including very young children who may have a relatively low salt consumption) separately from adults.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size See abstract
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Goiter
  • Humans
  • Iodine
  • Sodium Chloride, Dietary

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: iodine

Provenance

  • PMID: 12227127
  • DOI: (not available)
  • PMCID: Not in PMC
  • Verified: 2026-04-09 via PubMed E-utilities API

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09