Evaluation of the effects of iodized salt on the mental development of preschool-aged children: a cluster randomized trial in northern Ethiopia.

ABSTRACT: A cluster randomized effectiveness trial was used to examine the effects on mental development of introducing iodized salt to children 4 to 6 years of age in Ethiopia, where there were reportedly high levels of iodine deficiency. Sixty district clusters were randomized to receive iodized salt early at their markets with assistance from regular salt distributors or later as introduced by market forces. At pre- and post-iodization, 1602 children were given cognitive/language tests (namely School Readiness, WPPSI verbal reasoning, WPPSI Matrix reasoning), and mothers were interviewed concerning demographics, nutrition and health. Children's weight, height, urine and a blood sample were taken. Analyses of covariance, adjusting for clustering and baseline levels were conducted. Urinary iodine c

SUBMITTER: Aboud FE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6865940 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature