Evaluation of the use of iodized salt by pregnant women and their knowledge on the use of iodized salt

Objective: The aim of our study is to evaluate the use of iodized salt by pregnant women and their knowledge on the use of iodized salt. Methods: The study is of descriptive type. The sample of the study consisted of 347 pregnant women. The data of the study was collected by using a data form developed by researchers. The data obtained by the study was analyzed by means of SPSS package software. Results: Of the pregnant women included in the study, the mean age was 27.38±6.44 years old, 41.8% were living in urban areas, 34.6% were graduated from secondary school, 80.7% were housewives, 50.4% had income equal to their expenses, and 43.8% had husbands who were workers. It was found that 74.1% of the pregnant women had no knowledge on iodine deficiency and associated diseases, 35.7% of them did not know the importance of protection against iodine deficiency, and 65.7% of them did not know the necessity of using iodized salt during pregnancy. Also, we found that 44.1% of the pregnant women included in the study did not use iodized salt, 56.2% of those using iodized salt did not keep it in a proper way, and 16.7% of them added iodized salt into their meal after prepared. It was seen that 68.6% of the pregnant women did not receive information for the use of iodized salt during pregnancy. Conclusion: In conclusion, we found that the use of iodized salt during pregnancy and knowledge on the use of iodized salt are insufficient. We can say that pregnant women need training on the use of iodized salt, the time for adding salt into meals and methods for preserving salt.