
Urinary iodine concentration
Urinary iodine concentration measures the amount of iodine in urine, which is an important indicator of iodine intake in a population. Iodine is essential for producing thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism and support growth and development. A proper level of iodine in the diet helps prevent deficiencies, which can lead to health issues like goiter or thyroid problems. Public health programs often use urinary iodine levels to assess and improve iodine nutrition in communities, ensuring that people get enough of this crucial nutrient for their overall health.