Evaluation of 6 years performance of screening program of congenital Hypothyroidism in Markazi Province (2012-2006)

Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent mental retardation in congenital Hypothyroidism (CH). The aim of this study was to evaluating of screening program of CH in Markazi Province. In cross sectional descriptive study we used recorded data in Markazi province health center. From 2006 to 2012،127112 newborns were screened by measurement of serum TSH level by heel prick. Neonates who had blood TSH≥5MIU/L were recalled for more evaluation. Neonates with confirmed hypothyroidism underwent treatment. From127112 screened neonates، 414 were diagnosed as CH patients (both permanent and transient). The prevalence of CH was. Recall rate was 4. 8%. In 94. 4% of patients، treatment were begun before the 40th day of life. The coverage percent in the province was 100% from the second year of the program. Recall rate and the incidence of CH were higher than those in other studies، both in Iran and other countries. The mean age of treatment initiation and coverage percent were in favorable range.