The massive enlarged thyroid glands among the Korku tribals living in Amravati’s Melghat region of Mahrarashtra have puzzled doctors.
Facts
- Korkus, mainly women, with these abnormal growths, known as goitre, weighing over one to two kilograms.
- Iodine deficiency is known as the common cause of goitre, however the staple diet of Korkus is fish, which is also a rich source of iodine, and there is availability of iodised salt too. It means, goitre among Korku tribe is not due to iodine deficiency.
- Doctors believe that there are genetic factors at play.
- Lack of adequate medical attention is the main problem. They would seek medical help only when it became difficult to function with the growth on the neck.
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