ABSTRACT
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To find out the distribution of noniodized salt and related affecting factors in Xinjiang.</p><p><b>METHOD</b>Using NTTST's iodized salt inspection Plan.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>A 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.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Programs 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.</p>