Effects of iodine deficiency goiter on academic performance of girls

Iodine is an essential micronutrient and is essential in minute amounts for the normal physical and mental growth, development and well being of all humans. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of iodine deficiency Goiter on academic performance of girls and to compare these effects between Grade I and Grade II goiter. The study was conducted in different schools of Wah Cantt and Abottabad from 1[st] February 2011 to 30[th] June 2011. This is a descriptive / School based observational study. To assess the effects of iodine deficiency Goiter on academic performance of girls, 300 girls [10-19 years of age] were interviewed. A pre-tested closed ended questionnaire was designed. Different variables were included in the questionnaire regarding the subject. Results were summed and statistically analyzed using SPSS 10.0. Of the total number of girls interviewed 38 percent belong to 10 - 14 years and 62 percent belong to 15 - 19 years age group. In 18% subjects goiter was present since birth, 23% were having goiter for the last 5-10 years, while in 59% girls the duration of illness was less than 5 years. Academic performance was poor in 11%, satisfactory in 49%, good in 30% and excellent in only 2%. School attendance was poor in 18%, satisfactory in 34%, good in 34% and excellent in only 6%. The main reasons for absence from school were continuous illness and lack of self interest. It can be concluded from our study that iodine deficiency Goiter can affect the academic performance of girls. The academic performance was better among girls with Grade I goiter as compare to girls with Grade II. Academic performance of girls, with duration of illness < 5 years, was better as compared to those who were having goiter for longer than 5 years because cognitive functions deteriorate with increasing duration of illness. Emphasis should be on health education regarding the use of iodized salt to prevent iodine deficiency Goiter