Epidemiology of endemic goiter in Tuscany
Maccherini, D.; Antonangeli, L.; Leoli, F.; Rago, T.; Vitti, P.; Aghini-Lombardi, F.
Annali Dell'istituto Superiore di Sanita 34(3): 395-397
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 0021-2571 PMID: 10052182 Document Number: 492012
In the present study, the data of epidemiological surveys carried out in Tuscany from 1981 to 1993 in schoolchildren population (6-14 years) residing in extraurban hilly and mountain areas are reported. Mild iodine deficiency and high prevalence of goiter were documented in the epidemiological surveys carried out up to 1990. An increase in urinary iodine excretion with a dramatic decrease in goiter prevalence was documented in the more recent surveys, independently from iodine prophylaxis. The results observed in Garfagnana and in Val Tiberina after the implementation of iodized salt confirmed the necessity to promote prophylaxis programs extended to the entire population.