[An endemic goiter study of a population in the Pyrenees (Cerdanya-Girona)]

Abstract

Introduction: To evaluate the iodine deficiency, the scholar population is the most usually studied. However, the survey in general population offers information about the most affected groups. Our work was made in the frame of a health survey of Cerdanya (12,200 inhabitants), and five years after salt iodination.

Aims: Aims.--1) Prevalence evaluation of endemic goiter and urinary iodine excretion in Cerdanya population (> 6 y.). 2) Measurement of iodine concentration in drinking water.

Material and methods: 492 individuals were randomly recruited (46.5% men and 53.5% women). A questionnaire and estimation of thyroid size (Pérez) were performed. Urinary iodine excretion was determined (Benotti) in 25% of the subjects. Measurement of iodine concentration in drinking water were performed.

Results: Goiter prevalence (> or = Ia) was 28.7% (IC 95%: 24.8-32.6). The prevalence was higher in women (35.3% vs 21%/p < 0001). Goiter prevalence > Ia was 7.9% (IC 95%: 5.6-10.2) and for nodular goiter 3.4% (IC 95%: 1.9-4.9). In our population the goiter prevalence = Ia, decreased with age, but no significant changes age-related for goiter > or = Ib was observed. In women > or = 45 years and previous pregnancy, the prevalence was higher (35.6% vs 17.6%. p < 0.05). Median urinary iodine was 165 micrograms/l. In 81% of the population the fish consumption was higher than once a week. Mean iodine concentration in drinking water was 2.04 mg/l (2.1 SD).

Conclusions: After promote iodinated-food consumption, good results with a decrease in goiter prevalence and a increase in urinary iodine excretion were observed. Pregnancy increases the risk of goiter development. Although young people was more affected, the good level of urinary iodine excretion was the best indicator to expect progressive goiter disappearance. The low iodine concentrations in Cerdanya water drinking, explains the iodine deficiency in this area.