Objectives: We carried out a study to assess the prevalence of goitre, measure urinary iodine excretion (UIE) levels and to estimate salt iodine content at the household level in Howrah district of West Bengal, India.

Methods: Study Design: This is a Cross-sectional descriptive study conducted in September–December 2006. Setting: Primary schools located in 30 clusters (villages and wards) randomly selected through <5001>30 cluster<5002> sampling methodology. Participants: 2400 school children, aged 8–10 years. Indicators: The indicators used in this study to assess for IDD were recommended by the WHO/UNICEF/ICCIDD. Goitre was assessed clinically by the standard palpation technique. The urinary iodine excretion level was analyzed by the wet digestion method. Salt samples consumed at the household level were collected and tested by the spot iodine testing kit to measure iodine content.

Results: The Total Goitre Rate (TGR) was 13.7% (95% CI = 12.3–15.1%). Grade 1 was 11.4% and Grade 2 (visible goitre) was 2.3%. The TGR was influenced by the age and sex factors but not by religion and residence. The median urinary iodine excretion level was 13 µg/dL (normal range: 10–20 µg/dL) and none had a value less than 5 µg/dL. There was significant negative correlation between UIE levels and the age and place of residence factors. Almost 80% of salt samples tested had adequate iodine content (= 15 ppm). Consumption of iodized salts was lower among Hindus and in rural area.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the Howrah district is in a transition phase from iodine deficiency to iodine sufficiency.