Prevalence study of iodine deficiency disorders among high school girls in Shiraz Islamic republic of Iran, 1996 - 1997

ABSTRACT

To assess the prevalence of Iodine deficiency disorders, in high school girls in Shiraz, Iran. Design: A cross-sectional study based on a multi-stage cluster sample. Setting: The study subjects underwent clinical examination for presence of goiter. A sub sample of study sample was selected to conduct Urinary Iodine determination. Subjects: High school girls aged 14-18 years. Prevalence of goiter was 25%. Grade 1B goiter was more prevalent [13.9%] than grade 1A [7.4%]. Iodine deficiency according to two indices, Urinary Iodine level and Urinary Iodine/Creatinine ratio in sub sample of study sample were 4.7% and 12.1% respectively. Salt iodination program should be continued and further studies to investigate other factors in genesis of thyroid enlargement are recommended