Assessment of Health Problems for Patients with Goiter in Baghdad Teaching Hospital

Background. Iodine-deficiency disorders are a major public health problem all over the world. Goiter is the most visible manifestation of iodine-deficiency disorder. This study assessed of health problems for patients with goiter in Baghdad teaching hospital. Objective:- The study aims to assess health problems for patients with goiter and to find out the relationship between health problems with demographic characteristics. Methodology: - A descriptive study was carried out in Baghdad teaching hospital for the period from 1\2\2017 to 2\4\2018. A purposive (non probability) sample of (60) patients. Questionnaire was constructed for the purpose of the study. Data were collected through the application of the questionnaire and interview technique. Data were analyzed through descriptive statistical approach (frequency and percentage) and inferential statistical approach (Pearson correlation and mean of score) by using of SPSS 16.0 Results: The study results indicated that the age group was between (20-30) year and most of them less than 30 years old.Most of the study samples(71.7%) were female, and (60%) were married and (78.3%) living in rural area and (36.7%) were secondary school graduate and (60%) were employed, with(50%) have barely sufficient monthly income. Most of the study sample (40%) were suffering from the disease for period (1-2) years. Conclusions:- The findings of the study samples indicated that moderate severity of physiological problems and high severity in some items such us (Palpitation, Dyspnea, Weakness, and Hand sweat) and also moderate severity in psychosocial problems and high severity in some items such us (Decrease self esteem, Change in body image, Change in eating patterns, and Nervousness). There is strong positive relationship between health problems with (physiological problems and psychosocial problems). Recommendation:-The study recommended that educational programs should be constructed or designed for patients toward health care awareness for patients with goiter. The nurse must periodically assess the health of the patient with goiter. The patient is reminded to avoid tea, coffee, cola, and other stimulants. Keyword: Health problems for Goiter