Geomedical study of thyroid disorders in the foot hill settlements of Pir Panjal Range

The present study is an, attempt to find out the concentration of Iodine (I) in soil and water phases of the natural environment, and its relationship with the human health in the foot hill settlements of Pir Panjal Range in Anantnag district of Kashmir valley. Also, socio-economic determinants of health were taken into due account. Firstly, the area was divided into altitudinal zones and soils classes. Then, the soil and water samples were taken from each soil type in each altitudinal zone and were analyzed by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The socio-economic character of the area was analyzed through surveying the area by using structured household schedules.  In this area, people rely mostly on locally cultivated food items because of their economic condition. The study highlights that about 19.5, 42.9 and 37.6% households in the study area have low (Rs. 10, 000 month-1) income status respectively. The study reveals that iodine content in all the soil (0.970 to 1.230 mg kg-1) and water (1.6 to 4.2 µg L-1) samples in all the altitudinal zones is less than the average values in the world soils (2.8 mg kg-1) and fresh waters (8.7 μg L-1). About 17.6% of the population in sample villages suffers from Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDDs).  These IDDs can be ascribed to the scarcity of iodine in soils, drinking waters (and hence diet) and lifestyle. Attempts have been made to suggest certain remedial measures to minimize the magnitude of IDD sufferers in the study area.   Key words: Iodine, thyroid disorders, foot hills, cooking methods.