Evaluation of the effectiveness of health education on iodine deficiency disorders in Hebei province in 2009

Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of health education on iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) in Hebei, and to provide basic information for development of control strategies. Methods A total of 34 project counties were selected in Hebei province, and 3 townships were chosen in each project county. Heath educational activities were carried out in the classes of grade 5 in the central primary school of each selected township. In the meantime, 3 villages were chosen in each selected township where the health education for women of childbearing age in the community was carried out. Sureys on knowledge of IDD control were conducted in the 34 project counties before and after the health educational activities. Results The knowing rates of IDD control among pupils in all 34 project counties increased from 71.10%(7835/11 019) to 94.84%(10 840/11 430) after health education, with a average increase of 23.74%. The knowing rates of IDD control among housewives increased from 77.02%(4531/5883) to 95.32%(5902/6192), with a average increase of 18.30%. Of which, the knowing rates of IDD control among pupils in Hengshui city increased from 55.56% (750/1350) to 94.89% (1281/1350),with a average increase of 39.33%. The knowing rates of IDD control among housewives in Handan city increased from 65.68%(532/810) to 96.50%(909/942), with a average increase of 30.82%. Conclusions The knowing rates of IDD control among pupils and housewives are remarkably increased after implementing the health education projects. They have better life and health habits, and the project achieves desired effect. Key words: Iodine;  Deficiency diseases;  Goiter, endemic;  Health education