Assessing the Prevalence of Iodine Deficiency Disorder (IDD) in Wolaita and Dawro Zones Students, Snnpr, Ethiopia

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the prevalence of Iodine Deficiency Disorder (IDD) in Wolaita and Dawro zones. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study involving quantitative method was conducted in high school and preparatory students in Wolaita and Dawuro zones between April and May 2012. Quantitative data were collected from 718 randomly selected students using structured and pre-tested questionnaire. Quantitative data were entered into and cleaned using Epi-info version 3.5.1 and then transported to and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: From the total of 740 students who consented and participated in the study, 718 provided complete answers with a response rate of 97.0%. From the total study participants, 390 (54.3%) were males and 328 (45.7%) were females. The majority, 607 (84.5%) of the students were between the ages of 15-19 years. The overall prevalence (Total Goiter Rate) of goiter in study area was 351 (48.9%). Out of these female accounts 214(60.9%). Goiter stage of Grade-1, were 265 (36.9%) while goiter Grade-2 were 86 (11.9%). Conclusion and Recommendation: In general IDD is a serious public health concern in the both zones. Significant proportion of students in Wolaita and Dawuro zones high school and preparatory students, are affected by goiter. Therefore, emphasis on a sustainable iodine intervention program targeted at population particularly female is mandatory. Nutrition education along with Universal Salt Iodization program where iodine deficiency is severe is urgently required.