Which statement best explains why iodized table salt reduced the prevalence of iodine deficiency disorders?

• A. Because adding iodine to widely consumed table salt provided a consistent, affordable population-wide source of iodine that reached many households regardless of dietary patterns.
• B. Because iodized salt replaces all seafood sources of iodine and forces the body to upregulate endogenous iodine synthesis to prevent deficiency.
• C. Because iodized salt increases salt molecular weight and thereby directly stimulates thyroid hormone production in a way unrelated to iodine content.
• D. Because iodized salt was used mainly by hospitals and had little community penetration, so deficiency declined due to unrelated improvements in general sanitation.

Answer: (A)