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Endemic goitre in Sri Lanka.

Authors :
Fernando MA
Balasuriya S
Herath KB
Katugampola S
Source :
Asia-Pacific journal of public health [Asia Pac J Public Health] 1989; Vol. 3 (1), pp. 11-8.
Publication Year :
1989

Abstract

This survey examined 59,158 children from 87 schools in 17 out of 24 districts in Sri Lanka for goitre. The overall prevalence rate was 18.8%: 23.2% for girls and 14.0% for boys. Prevalence in districts varied from 30.2% in Kalutara to 6.5% in Matale. It was higher in rural than urban areas, and in inland than coastal areas. The sex ratio of prevalence rates was directly related and the ratio of palpable to visible goitre was inversely related to the severity of the endemic. It is suggested that for a rapid epidemiological assessment when the latter ratio is less than four, it is indicative of endemicity for public health purposes and calls for intervention. The iodination of salt is both practical and feasible in Sri Lanka.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1010-5395
Volume :
3
Issue :
1
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Asia-Pacific journal of public health
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
2719869
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1177/101053958900300103