Epidemiology of goitre in Sri Lanka in the post-iodization era

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Previous studies of goitre in Sri Lanka proposed the presence of a goitre belt, which was refuted subsequently. Epidemiology of goitre in the post iodization era needs re-evaluation. Objectives To describe the epidemiology of goitre in Sri Lanka. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in designated zones except in conflict areas in 2006/2007. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used and patients were evaluated clinically, biochemically and cytologically. RESULTS: Among 5200 participans 426 had goitre. Mean age was 36.3 (SD 17.3) years. Goitre was commonest in the age group 40-49 years with a female pre-ponderance. The prevalence was similar in all zones with pockets of high prevalence in each zone. Overall islandwide adjusted prevalence was 6.8% (95% CI = 6.0-7.6). CONCLUSIONS: There was no identifiable goitre belt.There were pockets of high prevalence in all zones. Goitre remains a public health issue despite universal iodization.