Tracking Progress Towards Sustainable Elimination of Iodine Deficiency Disorders in Selected four Districts of Bihar: An Epidemiological Study

Abstract

Introduction: Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDDs) remain a significant global public health challenge, with severe consequences ranging from congenital anomalies, Goitre to mental deficiency. Preventing these disorders through iodized salt consumption is cost-effective and efficient.Aims/ objective: To assess the prevalence of goitre and the proportion of households using adequately iodized salt in selected four districts (Saran, Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, Patna) of Bihar (a state in eastern India) using WHO/UNICEF/ICCIDD criteria.Materials and Method: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among children aged 6-12 years.A multi-stage sampling method was employed, and iodine content in household salt samples were analysed.Results: The results showed that the prevalence of goitre ranged from 0.9% to 4.63% across districts, indicating that goitre is not a public health problem. Adequate iodized salt consumption varied from 71.95% to 86.72%,falling short of the 90% USI goal. Urinary iodine excretion data were not available due to ongoing laboratory setup in PMCH, Patna.Conclusion: The study underscores the need for strengthened monitoring and evaluation to ensure thesustainability of IDD control activities for achieving sustainable elimination of IDD in Bihar.