To which age range is iodine supplementation during pregnancy typically given?

Iodine supplementation during pregnancy is typically recommended for women of childbearing age, particularly those in the 15-45 years old range. This age group encompasses the majority of women who are likely to conceive and carry a pregnancy. Adequate iodine is essential for the development of the fetal brain and overall growth, making it crucial to ensure that pregnant women receive sufficient iodine for both their health and that of their developing child.

Iodine deficiency during pregnancy can lead to serious health complications, including intellectual disabilities and developmental disorders in children. Public health guidelines emphasize the importance of ensuring that women in this age bracket receive appropriate iodine to support both their health and the health of their future offspring.

In addition, women who are planning to become pregnant or who are pregnant should be particularly vigilant about their iodine intake. This is why guidelines focus on this specific age range, as it represents women most likely to be affected by iodine deficiency and who would benefit from supplementation.