Reaffirming the role of iodine in cognitive health: a call for lifespan-based public health action

Iodine deficiency critically affects cognitive health across the lifespan, particularly during pregnancy, early childhood, and older age. This editorial highlights the evidence linking deficiency to impaired neurodevelopment and accelerated cognitive decline. Despite effective interventions such as salt iodization, public awareness remains low. We urgently call for integrated, lifespan-based public health strategies - combining strengthened policies, targeted education, and further research - to ensure iodine sufficiency and to protect global cognitive well-being.