Factors other than iodine deficiency contributing to the endemicity of goitre in Darfur Province (Sudan).

Abstract

One thousand six hundred and four children in nine schools in five villages of Darfur Province were examined for goitre. The incidence in Kas, Tawaila and Nyala was 75, 55, 13 (girls) 46, 35 and 10 (boys) per cent). Dietary survey showed the proportion of energy derived from millet to be 73.6, 66.7 and 37.1 per cent. Factors contributing to the high incidence of goitre in the province are discussed, and include low iodine intake, high Na, K and Fe in water, low vitamin A in the diet and poor nutritional status. A goitrogenic factor present in millet may account for the differences between villages.