PREVALENCE OF SUB CLINICAL HYPOTHYROIDISM IN SCHOOL CHILDREN (6-11 YEARS) OF DERA ISMAIL KHAN

Abstract

Objective:

To determine the prevalence of sub clinical hypothyroidism (hyperthyrotropinemia) in obese

Methodology:

4

measured using radioimmunoassay.

This cross-sectional study was carried out in Department of Chemistry, Gomal University,

Dera Ismail Khan, from June 2007 to August 2010 including eight primary schools of Dera Ismail Khan

having mixed population with some of the wards belonging to high socioeconomic group. Thorough clinical

examination excluded those suffering from chronic health problems. Height and weight of each child was

taken according to standard anthropometric procedures. Body mass index and body mass status of each

study subject was calculated according to Quetelet's Index and WHO criteria respectively. A total of 83

school children (6-11 years) were randomly selected among 1336 children. The sample included 23

(27.71%) normal weight children and 60 (72.28%) obese. Gender wise distribution of the sample was 48

(57.83%) boys and 35 (42.16%) girls. Free Thyroxin (FT ) and Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) were 

measured using radioimmunoassay.

Results

Hyperthyrotropinemia was the most commonly observed thyroid hormone dysfunction (8.43%) in

the whole sample (n=83) and 8.33% in obese children compared with 3-8% in general population of the

United States.

Conclusion:

Sub clinical hypothyroidism is the most common finding in the childhood obesity. The

prevalence of sub clinical hypothyroidism in the present study is 8.43% in the whole sample (n=83)

compared with 3-8% in general population of the United States. It is suggested that all the obese children

expressing minimum organ abnormalities be investigated to prevent the irreversible problems over the

course of many years.

school children.