Thyroid Awareness Day: Early screening can prevent long-term complications in women, says Hyderabad doc

Hyderabad: Thyroid disorders affect around 42 million people in India. The prevalence is high among women at 2.7 per cent and 0.5 per cent among men, as per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) report. The prevalence increases among women with age.

What are the symptoms of thyroid issues in women?

Thyroid issues–hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism–cause symptoms like changes in menstrual cycles, sensitivity to heat and cold, fatigue, weight changes, mood swings and even depression.

The early discovery of thyroid issues is considered a game-changer for patients as it can help with the effectiveness of clinical treatments. The early detection can help in enhancing the long-term results, leading to a better life for the affected.

The World Thyroid Awareness Day, observed on May 25, has selected the theme, ‘Focus on early detection and treatment’, which emphasises the need for early detection to keep a check on the progress of the condition.

Tiny gland but significant impact

The thyroid gland, though tiny, is responsible for overall health, producing thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) which regulate metabolism, growth and development.

Dr Vidya Tickoo, consultant endocrinologist and diabetologist, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad said, “Despite its tiny size, the thyroid gland has a significant impact on energy, metabolism and general health. Thyroid cancer, hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism are among the disorders that frequently develop slowly, with symptoms that are either modest or might be confused with those of other ailments. Because of this, early detection is both difficult and vital.”

Why is early detection crucial?

When thyroid issues are not detected and treated early, they can lead to several health complications, including cardiovascular diseases, high cholesterol and myxedema coma, which is a life-threatening condition.

According to Dr Vidya, early thyroid disease discovery is a game-changer for patient treatment, not only a clinical milestone. “We allow people to take charge of their health, avoid difficulties and significantly enhance long-term results by detecting thyroid dysfunction early on,” she said.

Thyroid dysfunction can be detected, even before symptoms appear, by blood tests that measure thyroid hormone and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels.

“Early detection has a significant influence. Treatment for thyroid diseases is frequently less intrusive, easier and more successful when detected early. For example, low-grade thyroid tumours with good prognosis can be discovered early and treated with little intervention,” Dr Vidya said.

In the same way, early detection of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism enables timely treatment, avoiding consequences like cardiovascular disease, infertility or childhood neurodevelopmental abnormalities.

Routine check-up for high-risk groups

In terms of thyroid health, routine screening and increased awareness are essential for high-risk groups, including women over 35, those with a family history of thyroid disease, and anyone who is experiencing unexplained mood swings, weight fluctuations or exhaustion.

“Universal screening for congenital hypothyroidism in infants guarantees prompt intervention, promoting healthy growth and development. To inform the public and medical professionals about the warning signals and the significance of routine examinations, awareness campaigns such as Thyroid Awareness Month are essential,” Dr Vidya added.

Patient outcomes improve, and the number of undetected cases decreases as more individuals become aware of the signs and hazards through early detection and adequate intervention.

Emphasis on proactive care

In place of intervention at a later time for people affected by thyroid issues, the emphasis has now shifted to early identification, calling for a more pragmatic approach.

“By moving the emphasis from crisis management to proactive care, early identification changes thyroid health outcomes. We can lessen the impact of thyroid diseases and assist millions of people in leading healthier, more fulfilling lives by placing a high priority on education, routine screenings and prompt intervention,” Dr Vidya said.