Gökova Village Faces Mystery of 50% Deaf Population

In Gokova, a remote Turkish village located 450 miles from Istanbul, over half of the population of 120 residents are deaf and non-verbal, relying on sign language as their primary mode of communication. The high prevalence of disabilities has baffled doctors and scientists, with theories attributing the issue to both inbreeding and water pollution from heavy metals like iron and arsenic. Local mayor Eyup Tozn believes the root cause is unhealthy water sources rather than intermarriage. Villagers like Sati Tozun express deep concern for the community, stating that many families are affected by disabilities, with limited support from the government. The situation in Gokova has drawn parallels to other isolated communities, such as Dhadkaie in Kashmir, known for a similar high rate of deafness. Despite the picturesque surroundings, the village faces significant health challenges that remain largely unaddressed.