OBJECTIVETo find out the distribution of noniodized salt and related affecting factors in Xinjiang.

METHODUsing NTTST's iodized salt inspection Plan.

RESULTSA total number of 17 973 house holds being surveyed in which 69.4% of those used iodized salt and 30.5% used noniodizd salt. In northern Xinjiang, 7 672 households being surveyed in which 83.9% used iodized salt while in eastern Xinjiang 1 200 house holds being surveyed in which 62.2% used iodized salt. In southern Xinjiang, 9 101 house holds being surveyed in which 58.2% used iodized salt. Data showed a statistically significant difference (chi(2) = 1 329.87, P < 0.01). The noniodized salt comes from shop-on-wheels (57.4%) and rock salt (23.0%). The source of iodine was different in different areas. In eastern and southern Xinjiang it came from shop-on-wheels, while in northern Xinjiang came from retail sites. Factors related to the use of iodized salt were awareness about iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) and income.

CONCLUSIONPrograms on fighting against iodine deficiency in Xinjiang needs more attention, especially in the following aspects as publicity on IDD, administration of salt market and supervision system.