THYROID WEIGHTS AND IODIZED SALT PROPHYLAXIS

  • 1 January 1980
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 110  (52) , 2010-2017
Abstract
Based on autopsy material from the Institute of Pathology, University of Zurich [Switzerland], thyroid weights and goiter incidence were investigated and the results correlated with goiter prophylaxis. Autopsy protocols of the years 1949/1950 and 1978/1979 were reviewed for thyroid weight, age and sex of patients. Average thyroid weights and goiter incidence were determined separately for both sexes and for different age groups. The values for both periods (1949/1950 and 1978/1979) were compared and related to results reported in the literature. Thirty years ago the mean thyroid weights were very high, although as an effect of goiter prophylaxis with iodized salt, introduced in 1923, the thyroids of younger adults were significantly lighter than those of older groups. Thirty years later the thyroids were only half the weight of those in the years 1949/1950. Goiter incidence decreased to the same degree. Some preexisting goiters decreased in size within the 30 yr span. The average thyroid weights of adults up to 40 yr of age are now largely the same as in regions without endemic goiter. The few remaining goiters may be explained by a still insufficient iodination of table salt. Other pathogenic factors, e.g., disturbances of hormone synthesis, must be considered.

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