Living with thyroid disease can greatly affect a person’s physical, mental, and social well-being, especially if it goes undiagnosed. Low production of thyroid hormones due to iodine deficiency can result in hypothyroidism, which manifests in fatigue, weight gain, and developmental issues, notably in children.
“Because thyroid symptoms are often mild and not very specific, many people do not realize they need to get checked,” according to Dr. Erick Mendoza, president of the Philippine Thyroid Association. “Among older adults, symptoms like confusion, depression, falls, heart issues, and even changes in bowel habits are often mistaken for normal aging. Waiting too long to seek help can lead to worse health problems and higher healthcare costs,” Mendoza said.
“The time to act is now. By prioritizing thyroid health, we can improve outcomes for affected individuals and reduce the overall burden of this public health issue. Initiatives like the Thyromobile Project in the Philippines can raise awareness and provide thyroid services in remote, iodine-deficient areas,” said Martha Paiz Herrera, General Manager and Managing Director, Merck, Inc. The Thyromobile offers goiter screening, thyroid ultrasound, and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) screening, focusing on pregnant and lactating women.
“Addressing thyroid disease demands a multifaceted approach,” says Dr. Aurora Macaballug, president of the Philippine College of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism. “By actively advocating for policies that promote research, funding, and improved access to care—especially through targeted screening and testing—we can create a supportive environment for both patients and healthcare providers.”
