Tārīkh-i pizishkī i.e., Medical History

Abstract

Digging Qanat (a series of well-like vertical shafts, connected by gently sloping tunnels) is one of the most exhausting occupations. Few Qanat diggers (Muqqanis) spend their lives in complete physical health after ending their job lifetime. The present research aims to study traditional methods applied to prevent and treat occupational diseases which are highly incident among Qanat diggers of Yazd province. Mostly, they contract diseases related to respiratory system and a kind of skin disease known as “Ab Gaz”. Presented data have been gathered by the author from the field studies and interviews carried out with Qanat diggers of some cities including Bafgh, Zarch, Ardakan, Abargoo, Tabas, Marvast, Harat and Yazd during Azar and Day 1389/November, December, January/2009.