TERRITORIAL DIFFERENCES IN MORBIDITY IN THE DESERT AREAS OF NAVOIY REGION AND FACTORS AFFECTING THEM

The article considers territorial differences in morbidity in the desert areas of Navoiy Region and analyses the geographical factors that may influence population health. The study focuses on Zarafshon city and the districts of Tomdi, Uchquduq, and Konimex. Particular attention is paid to the region's arid climate, large seasonal temperature contrasts, limited water resources, drinking-water quality, industrial activity, settlement distribution, and unequal access to medical services. Statistical indicators presented in the research materials show differences between territories in respiratory, digestive, cardiovascular, infectious, and parasitic disease groups. The article also discusses healthcare provision and the importance of mapping health indicators through GIS technologies. The findings suggest that morbidity patterns should be interpreted as the result of several interacting natural, environmental, social, and service-related conditions rather than a single isolated factor. Recommendations include strengthening preventive care in remote settlements, improving drinking-water monitoring, expanding environmental observation, and applying a consistent method for collecting and mapping health statistics.