Iodine Excess is a Risk Factor for Goiter Formation

Abstract

Background: Goiters have been associated with iodine deficiency. Although universal salt iodization in Uganda achieved a household coverage of 95% by 2005, goiter rates are still high. This study investigated the association between iodine excess and goiter. Methods: In a case control study, urinary iodine levels, complete blood count, T3, T4 and TSH levels were determined. Results: We recruited, 60 goiter and 63 non goiter patients. The median urine iodine level for goiter patients was significantly higher than in non-goiter controls. Urinary iodine excretion was sufficient in 43%, more than sufficient in 31% and excess in 10% of cases. There was an association between excess urinary iodine levels and goiter. Conclusion: Urinary iodine excess was significantly associated with occurrence of goiter.

Keywords

• iodine excess
• goiter
• sub saharan africa