The condition of goiter endemic in the Republic of Tuva

Abstract

The prevalence of iodine deficiency diseases and grave iodine deficiency in the Chaa-Hol region of the Tyva Republic were studied. Children and adult population were examined by the random sampling method. Enlargement of the thyroid was diagnosed by palpation and ultrasonic examination. Thyroid function was assessed by measuring serum thyrotropic hormone, thyroxin, and thyroglobulin by standard kits and urinary iodine levels. The severity of iodine deficiency was assessed using the classification proposed by ICCIDD and WHO. The prevalence of goiter among prepubertal children is 42.1%), among adolescents 98.5%), and among adults 39.8%. Iodine deficiencies are highly prevalent, including endemic neurological cretinism, congenital and acquired hypothyroidism, and giant multinodular goiters. Iodine deficiency was detected in 100%) examinees, ioduria median was 1.6 pg/%o. Hormonal studies showed hypothyroidism in 30% examinees (in 41% children and in 26.4%) adults). The median of serum thyroglobulin is a criterion of severity of endemic goiter. TH median in the examinees was 86.1± 19.3 ng/ml, which corresponds to severe endemic goiter. These data indicate the presence of severe iodine deficiency and endemic goiter in the ChaaHol region of the Tyva Republic. Hence, the study has for the first time revealed a focus of severe endemic goiter in Russia. Measures to liquidate the focus are taken.