Magnitude of iodine deficiency disorder and associated factors in Dawro zone, southwest Ethiopia: the hidden hunger

Abstract Background: Iodine deficiency disorder (IDD) is continued to be a major public health problem in Ethiopia. The problem is worse but the data is scarce in some pocket areas of the country. This study was aimed to assess the magnitude of IDD and associated factors in southwest Ethiopia by using different biochemical and clinical indicators. Methods: Both community and school based cross- sectional study was conducted on school age children (6-12 years) from March 1 to 24, 2017. Simple random and systematic sampling techniques were applied to select districts and eligible children respectively. Household data was collected from children’s primary care takers by using structured questionnaire. A trained surgeon examined all children (n=652) for goiter. Urine sample was collected from 20% of children (n=130). Results: A total of 652 school children were participated in the study. Total goiter rate and median urinary iodine concentration (UIC) was 54.8 % and 96.12μg/l respectively. In multivariable logistic regression analyses student’s age was significantly (P<0 05) associated with both goiter and median UIC. However; sex of students and family income were significantly (P<0.001) associated with goiter and cassava consumption was significantly (P<0.001) associated with UIC. Conclusion: As indicated by the median UIC, there was mild iodine deficiency in this study community. However; chronic iodine deficiency was still a severe public health problem (high goiter prevalence). In addition, there was low concentration of iodine in the salt and increased cassava cultivation and consumption indicating the potential risk in the area. Therefore, it is necessary to intensify IDD elimination activities along with teaching communities on techniques of cassava processing for household consumption. Trial registration: PACTR201809544276357. Retrospectively registered on 14, Sept 2018.