The Challenge of Attaining Universal Salt Iodisation in Zambia
Cyprian Katongo
University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.
Dominique Brunet
UNICEF Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.
Gladys Kabaghe *
National Food and Nutrition Commission, Lusaka, Zambia.
Freddie Mubanga
National Food and Nutrition Commission, Lusaka, Zambia.
Kabaso F. Kabwe
National Food and Nutrition Commission, Lusaka, Zambia.
Ward Siamusantu
THRIVE Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Objectives: To assess whether iodine deficiency disorders were still not a public health concern and whether Universal Salt Iodisation had been attained.
Methods: Urine and salt samples collected from school children and determined by ammonium persulfate digestion method and iodometric method respectively.
Results: The Median Urinary Iodine Concentration of 245 µg/L was observed and 53% of households accessing adequately iodised salt.
Conclusions: Iodine deficiency still no longer a public health concern in Zambia; however, Universal Salt Iodisation not attained.