Iodine nutritional status of adolescents.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the nutritional status of the adolescent tribes in Purnia District of Bihar. METHODS: Iodine nutritional status of the adolescent children (10-12 yrs) of tribal communities of Purnia District (Bihar) was studied. Urinary iodine levels of the children was estimated. Iodine content of the common salt samples consumed by the tribals has been determined. Goiter prevalence among the children has been assessed. Iodine deficiency status and goiter-proneness of the target population has been discussed in the light of the data. RESULT: Total goiter prevalence of 11.67% estimated among the tribals from six well populated markets. CONCLUSION: The tribals of Purnia District should be encouraged to consume iodised salt.