AbstractBackground: Iodine deficiency disorders (IDDs) are dominant public health problem which can be hinder by consumption of iodized salt. For defendable elimination of IDDs, the goal of universal salt iodization (USI) is to cover more than 90% of household to consume adequately iodized salt. This study was conducted with objectives as to assess the level of knowledge and practices regarding the consumption of salt in selected area Puducherry.
Aim: This study aimed to identify the level of knowledge and practice on iodised and non–iodised salt among households.
Subjects and methods: A descriptive study were conducted among 93 households, in Puducherry. Sample selected by using convenient sampling technique. The quantitative research approach and descriptive cross sectional survey design was used. Data was collected by using structured questionnaire for socio demographic variables and to assess the level of knowledge and practice Likert scale was used.
Result: Out of 93 householders, 40(43%) were aged between 45–55 years, 61(65.6%) were female. The result shows only 6(6.45%) of them had adequate knowledge of iodised and non-iodised salt and 7(7.53%) had positive attitude towards iodised and non-iodised salt among the householders.2 most of them 90% using white salt.3 there was positive correlation between knowledge and attitude between iodised and noniodised salt among householders. It was evident that statistically significant p<0.001 level.4 There is a significant association between knowledge with socioeconomic status at p<0.05 level and attitude with monthly income at p<0.05 level. It was evident that if knowledge increases attitude also increases. The role of education plays major role in imparting knowledge about IDD and iodine salt to public.
Conclusion: These study findings revealed that majority of householders were inadequate knowledge and adequate intake of salt. Researcher play a major role in imparting knowledge about IDD and iodised salt to public and also distributed pamphlets to create awareness to public.