Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDD) in Burie and Womberma Districts, West Gojjam, Ethiopia

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the magnitude and causes of goiter in West Gojjam, Amhara National Regional state, Ethiopia. Methods: The study was conducted in July 2010. The sample size was determined by assuming 50% prevalence of total goiter rate, 5% error, 95% confidence interval, design effect of 1 (random) and 5% of non-response rate. Two stage random sampling; sub-district and village was used to select children aged 6-12 years and their biological mothers from 10 randomly selected villages in each of the districts. Overall, 403 households participated in the study. The assessment was conducted using palpation of thyroid size, urinary iodine level determination, household level interview and Focus Group Discussion (FGD). Results: The study revealed a total goiter prevalence rate of 54% and 30.1% in children and their biological mothers respectively. More than 64% of the children were severely iodine deficient. Younger age mother were more affected than older and female children are more afected than male ones. The major cause for goiter as revealed by urinary iodine level and concentration of iodized salt is dietary iodine deficiency. There are no goitrogenic foods such as cassava, however, goitrogenic chemicals such as Dichloro Diphenyl Trichloroethane (DDT) and 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) were widely used. The study areas are known for surplus produce of cereals, legumes and chilli. Conclusions: In order to reverse the problem, immediate and sustainable distribution of iodated salt/oil capsule, prohibition of direct application of pesticides on foods and awareness creation on adverse effects of IDD and benefits of iodine nutrition is highly recommended.