Consumption of Iodised Salt amongst Urban Slum and Rural Households in Pune, India – A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract Background: Iodine is essential for thyroid function, growth and development. Despite universal salt iodisation, knowledge and consumption of iodised salt remain suboptimal in India. This study assessed iodised salt use and awareness of iodine deficiency disorders (IDDs) amongst urban slum and rural households in Pune. Materials and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted amongst 355 women involved in household cooking. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analysed with SPSS v28. Associations between iodised salt use and socio-demographic variables were assessed using the Chi-square tests ( P < 0.05). Results: Overall, 69.6% of households reported using iodised salt, with the awareness of iodine and IDDs at 43.4% and 30.4%, respectively. Usage was significantly higher in the age group of 25–50 years ( χ 2 = 16.57, P = 0.002), graduates ( χ 2 = 20.35, P < 0.001) and urban residents ( χ 2 = 11.04, P = 0.004). Brand trust, rather than health awareness, influenced consumption. Conclusion: Iodised salt use in Pune is moderate, with knowledge gaps persisting. Targeted health education, community engagement and programmatic monitoring are needed to improve coverage and awareness, reinforcing the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme.