A Cluster RCT Evaluating the Effect of Iodized Salt on Infant Development in Amhara Region of Ethiopia

Abstract

Iodized has been associated with the physical and mental development of children. We examined the effects of iodized salt on the growth and mental development of infant. Forty‐four communities in the Amhara region were randomly assigned and had access to iodized salt early (intervention) or later through market forces (control). A total of 1220 pregnant women were recruited and their health and micronutrient status were assessed at enrollment. Data were collected on infants (2 to 13mo), including SES, diet, anthropometry, Hb, home stimulation and mental development (Bayley scales, Cognition, Expressive language, Receptive language and Fine motor scales). The median UI excretion was higher in the intervention vs controls, for both mothers during pregnancy (161 vs 121 µg/L, p<0.0001) and infants (141 vs 110 µg/L, p<0.02). Additionally, (45 vs 60%, p<0.05) of mothers and (37 vs 44%, p<0.05) of infants were iodine deficient. The intervention had a tendency to improve cognition with an effect size of 0.09, p=0.06, but did not affect the scores for the other three bayley scales. The intervention significantly improved home score (delta=0.45, p=0.04). Iodized salt intake improved iodine status of both pregnant women and their infants, and could lead to improved infant development.Funded by Micronutrients Initiative, Canada