ABSTRACT
To assess the prevalence of goiter in school Children [6-12 years], and determine the pattern of salt consumption b the children; and see if there is any association between the prevalence of goiter and the source of drinking water. The study was conducted in a Union Council located in the outskirts of Islamabad. A convenience non-random sampling technique was adopted. Three hundred and ninety six students [6-12 years of age] were enrolled for the study. Interview was recorded in a structured pre-tested questionnaire. Children were asked to bring a teaspoon of salt which was being consumed at their houses and the salt was tested by Rapid Test Kit for iodine concentration. Clinical examination of the subjects was conducted for the presence or absence of goiter. Goiter was classified according to the WHO grading system. About 71.6% children had goiter which was equally distributed between both genders [p=0.34]. There was no association between the advancement of age and the prevalence in goiter [P<0.05]. Non-iodized salt was commonly used in the households [89.8%] and only 7% iodized salt samples contained the optimum iodine concentration [50-75 ppm]. No relationship was found between use of iodized salt and the goiter prevalence [P<0.09]. Use of spring and well water were significantly associated wit goiter [p<0.001] and villages which has spring and well water as their main source of water were endemic for goiter. High prevalence of goiter was found in the local population as compared to the immigrants [p<0.0069]. This study shows that goiter is prevalent in the areas around Islamabad and that simple and appropriate intervention like iodized salt are needed to reduce and control iodine deficiency