Abstract

Iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) are major public health problems in India, including Gujarat. Narmada district is a tribal area. The present study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of goitre in primary school children; to determine median urinary iodine concentration; to assess level of iodine in salt samples at household and retail shop level; and to study profile of salt sold at retail shops in Narmada district, Gujarat. 30 cluster survey method was used for the study in primary schools of Narmada District. Children studying in 1^st to 7^th standard were used in this study. A total of 70 students including five boys and five girls from 1^st to 7^th standard present in class on the day of visit were selected randomly for Goitre examination, so, total 2100 students were examined in schools. Urine sample was collected from one boy & one girl from each standard in each cluster. From community, at least 28 students including two boys and two girls from each standard in same age group were examined and also salt samples were tested from their households. So, total 2100 students were examined in schools and 858 students were examined out of schools in the selected villages. From each village, one retail shop was visited and salts were purchased and tested for iodine on the spot with spot kit. Goitre prevalence was found 18.1% among primary school children including grade 1 - 12.4% and grade 2 - 5.7%. As the age increases the Goitre prevalence also increases except in the age group of 9 years. Median urinary iodine excretion level was found 110 µg/L. Iodine level >15 ppm was found in 93.7% salt samples tested at household level. Present study showed mild Goitre prevalence in primary school children in Narmada District of Gujarat and iodine content of salt found adequate at household level.

Key words: Goitre survey, IDD, prevalence, primary school children, household level.