Injectable Form of Iodine Supplementation among High versus Low Priority Kavre population and Factors affecting it

Abstract

Background: Iodine injection was initiated during early eighties and continued for almost ten years covering 42 districts. As single injection protected injection receiving for four years, IOI used to be repeated every fifth year. Within these ten years of time several districts have undergone two or three cycles of IOI for prevention of Iodine Deficiency Disorder among the high risk groups of children and women of reproductive age. This survey was conducted to identify the factors associated with under coverage of IOI in priority groups of individuals in the district and reasons of deviation of available IOI to non-priority group. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 600 households in the identified cluster using structured, pre tested questionnaire was done. A total of 20 sites within the 10 clusters were surveyed. Focused group discussion was carried out with program personnel, health workers/officials in the district and other community key informant to find out program attributes, community participation and mobilization for the success of the program. Results: It was found in this survey that 48% priority population was covered by IOI in Kavre. Within this priority population, 55% of women in their reproductive age and 29% children below 15 years were covered. Compared to priority group, 16% non-priority group appeared covered in the IOI campaign in the district. Conclusions: It is essential to supplement iodine by guaranteed method until awareness of iodine penetrates deep into the household in every corner of Nepalese village. Keywords: children; Injectable oil; iodine; iodine deficiency disorder; non-priority group; priority group; women.