[Prevalence of iodine deficiency in pregnant women in the health area of Palencia (Spain)].

Background: Iodine deficiency in pregnant women may result in substantial and irreversible impairment in fetal brain development, even from the first few weeks of pregnancy.

Objective: To assess the nutritional iodine status of pregnant women in our health area and its relationship with dietary factors and thyroid function and to suggest treatment guidelines.

Patients And Method: A study in 164 pregnant women in early pregnancy was carried out.