Thyroid disease is a health condition that affects the thyroid gland, which is a small, butterfly-shaped organ at the base of the neck. The thyroid produces, stores and releases hormones that help control how the body uses energy, regulates metabolism, and contributes to many vital functions. If there is a problem with the gland, this can lead to feelings of fatigue and sluggishness, sadness, anxiety, difficulty in concentration and memory problems, and unexplained weight gain or loss.
Advocates are concerned about the widespread lack of awareness regarding thyroid disease, which impacts an estimated 200 million people worldwide.
“Many people remain unaware of the symptoms, risks, and importance of thyroid health. As a group, we are strengthening our thyroid health advocacy and commitment. We have had a successful run before the pandemic and now we are again actively working alongside the Department of Health and other partners,” said Dr. Aurora Macaballug, President, Philippine College of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism (PCEDM), speaking at the Thyroid Summit, which is a gathering of advocates from various sectors across the country.
Gaps in knowledge can mean delayed diagnoses and inadequate treatment, but the fundamental lack of data is also hampering the necessary interventions. People at risk for thyroid diseases include newborns and pregnant and breastfeeding women, especially those who are deficient in their iodine intake.
“This is where we should focus. Because we know that when a woman gets pregnant and she has goiter, the impact is on the brain development of the fetus,” said Dr. Teofilo San Luis, Jr. National Coordinator of the Iodine Global Network.
“Overall, there is not much data available about thyroid disease in the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific region,” explained Dr. Daveric Pagsisihan, PCEDM Board Member and Chair, Advocacy Committee.
“In addition to raising awareness among the public and healthcare professionals, we need to collect data through surveillance, target screenings for high-risk groups, and work on standardized clinical guidelines for the region,” Dr. Pagsisihan said.
“We are still far from the finish line, but at least we have five ‘P’s to guide us. First is partnership, the importance of collaboration and communication. Second is profiling, gathering data that will support our advocacy. Next is policymaking, as our efforts with the government achieve common goals. Promotion, as we will continue to raise awareness about thyroid health for all patients. Lastly, a proactive mindset keeps us moving forward,” said Dr. Erick Mendoza, president, Philippine Thyroid Association.
