The Situation of Iodine Deficiency and Factors Associated with Iodine Status among Children Aged 3-5 Years in Bangkok, Thailand

Abstract

Iodine is an essential micronutrient required throughout the life course, particularly in children aged 3–5 years, as it plays a crucial role in physical growth and cognitive development. This analytical study aimed to assess iodine status and identify factors associated with iodine status among children aged 3–5 years in Bangkok, Thailand. A total of 150 children and their caregivers were selected using systematic random sampling. Data were collected between July and August 2024 through caregiver questionnaires and urinary iodine concentration analysis conducted in a laboratory using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, and mean, as well as the chi-square test and multiple logistic regression analysis.The results showed that none of the children had iodine deficiency. Most children had adequate iodine levels (64.7%), while 35.3% had more-than-adequate iodine levels. Factors significantly associated with iodine status (p-value < 0.05) included caregivers’ knowledge of iodine deficiency prevention and household practices related to iodine supplementation. Children whose caregivers had poor knowledge were 14.0 times more likely to have more-than-adequate iodine levels than those whose caregivers had good knowledge. Similarly, children from households with poor iodine supplementation practices were 3.5 times more likely to have more-than-adequate iodine levels than those with good practices. In contrast, child-related factors, caregiver characteristics, and children’s dietary behaviors were not significantly associated with iodine status. In conclusion, improving caregivers’ literacy regarding iodine consumption is essential to enhance understanding of its benefits, risks, and health impacts on children. Continuous monitoring of excessive iodine intake should also be emphasized.