Iodine deficiency in pregnancy: the effect on neurodevelopment in the child
Bath SC, Steer CD, Golding J, Emmett P, Rayman MP
Published in Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology
Abstract
Study of 1,040 mother-child pairs demonstrating mild-to-moderate iodine deficiency in pregnancy associated with lower IQ and reading scores in children at age 8-9. Even mild deficiency (urinary iodine 50-150 mcg/L) showed cognitive impacts. Emphasizes critical importance of adequate iodine for fetal brain development. Suggests supplementation screening for pregnant women in deficient areas.
Methodology
Analysis within the ALSPAC birth cohort of 1,040 mother-child pairs, relating maternal urinary iodine-to-creatinine ratio in early pregnancy to childhood IQ at age 8 and reading ability at age 9, adjusted for socioeconomic and parental factors.
Key Findings
Children of mothers with an iodine-to-creatinine ratio below 150 mcg/g had higher odds of scores in the lowest quartile for verbal IQ, reading accuracy and reading comprehension. Associations persisted after adjustment for 21 confounders and were graded, with lower maternal iodine linked to poorer outcomes even within the mild-to-moderate deficiency range.
Conclusions
Even mild maternal iodine deficiency in pregnancy is associated with poorer childhood cognitive and reading outcomes, supporting attention to iodine adequacy before and during pregnancy.
Limitations
Observational design cannot prove causation; iodine measured from a single spot urine sample, which is imprecise at the individual level; residual confounding by maternal diet, education and environment remains possible.
Supplements Studied
Iodine deficiency during pregnancy is associated with impaired neurodevelopment in the child.
Outcomes Measured
Iodine deficiency during pregnancy is associated with impaired neurodevelopment in the child.
Study Details
Access Study
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.