Determinants of the Use of Iodized Salt Among Pregnant Women Attending Ante-Natal Clinic at the Kaneshie Polyclinic

Abstract

Iodine is an important micronutrient which is poorly consumed globally. There are three (3) main micronutrient deficiencies which are of Public Health significance; thus, Iron Deficiency Anaemia, (IDA), Vitamin A deficiency and Iodine Deficiency Disorders, (IDDs). Iodine deficiency particularly in pregnancy is a global problem of Public Health importance. Severe deficiencies of iodine, particularly in pregnancy increases risk of cretinism, stillbirth, miscarriage, low birthweight, and impaired cognitive development of the unborn baby. The general objective of this study was to find out factors associated with the use of iodized salt, among pregnant women, attending Ante-Natal Clinic at the Kaneshie Polyclinic in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana, from May-June 2015. The specific objectives were to determine the prevalence of the use of iodized salt among pregnant women, and also to find out factors influencing the use of iodized salt among pregnant women.