A Prevalence Study Of Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDD) In School Children Aged 6 - 16 Years In Nginyang And Marigat Divisions Of Baringo District.

Abstract

A random survey of Iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) amongst primary school children was done in 2 Administrative divisions of Baringo district in May, 1988. This was done in order to assess the magnitude of IDD in this district where a multidisciplinary approach in solving problems affecting child survival and development had just been launched. All children in 8 randomly selected schools in these two divisions were examined clinically for goitres and for the presence of signs of hypothyroidism and/or cretinism. 200 children were randomly selected from among these children and their thyroid hormones (T3;T4 and TSH) levels determined. The results of this survey were analysed for age; sex, and place of residence (highland or lowland). Goitre prevalence was more common in females than in males and more in 10wland areas than in highland areas (p < 0.05). In school children exposed to Iodine deficiency, hypothyroidism as detected by TSH levels of more than 5 microgramme International Unit/ml was more prevalent than goitre rates. There was no relationship established between TSH levels and goitres, and T4 levels and goitres.