Endemic goitre

Some inland areas where soil and water lacks in iodine compounds and consumption of marine foods is low are known for higher incidence of goitre. In such areas goitre is said to be "endemic".

This type of goitre is easily preventable. In most developed countries some regulation put in force by health policy institutions require salt, flour or water to be fortified with iodine.

Treatment of endemic goitre is medical with iodine and thyroxine preparations. Only in advanced cases when there is significant compression of nearby structures surgery is needed.