One of the largest endocrine glands in our body is the thyroid gland. It is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck that produces the triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) hormones that are critical for bodily functions and regulate metabolism. These hormones affect several bodily functions including growth, skin maintenance, heart rate, heat production, and digestion.
The thyroid gland needs iodine to produce T3 and T4. Iodine is a trace mineral that is naturally present or added to food. The iodine-rich foods are shellfish, seaweed, and other seafoods. And, the cheapest and most accessible source of iodine is iodized salt.
Worldwide, millions suffer from thyroid diseases that are often caused by iodine deficiency. Common thyroid disorders are hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, thyroiditis, and thyroid cancer. Hyper- and hypothyroidism is the abnormal production of T3 and T4 (increased or decreased production). While thyroiditis is the inflammation of the thyroid gland.
To emphasize the importance of thyroid health, the International Thyroid Awareness Week (ITAW) is observed every 4th week of May. This year’s theme, “Thyroid ay Alagaan upang Sakit at Komplikasyon ay Maiwasan,” highlights the timely diagnosis, screening, treatment, and prevention of thyroid diseases. It also emphasizes the importance of factful information, practical advice, and helpful insights about thyroid diseases to promote patient quality of life.
To celebrate the ITAW 2022, the Department of Health (DOH) together with specialty societies will conduct a webinar series that will start on 25 May until 31 May 2022 via Zoom Application and Facebook Live.
In addition, the National Nutrition Council (NNC) constantly promotes the use of iodized salt as the most cost-effective measure against iodine deficiency disorder (IDD). NNC emphasizes it in Kumainment No. 7: Gamit og iodized salt.” Meanwhile, Republic Act No. 8172 or ASIN Law was institutionalized to strengthen the campaign on the fortification of salt with iodine, and the utilization of iodized salt.
Among the populace, pregnant women and their babies are greatly affected by thyroid diseases. Women with IDD have a higher risk of miscarriage or stillbirth. Also, they may give birth to a low birthweight baby or infant with physical disabilities. IDD may also result in impaired growth and cognitive development of the children.
Thyroid diseases may jeopardize a person's life, especially those of children. Thus, the government continually exerts efforts to increase public awareness about thyroid diseases, its treatment, and prevention.
Thyroid disorder can be prevented but may develop into other diseases if untreated. Together let us all guard ourselves from thyroid diseases and avoid any possible complications. (NO II Arlie Joy O. Damiles)
References:
Healthy Pilipinas. (2022, May 20). Healthy Pilipinas. Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/unsupportedbrowser?fbid=320349766946607&set=a.164946492486936
Iodine. (n.d.). National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iodine-HealthProfessional/#:~:text=Iodine%20is%20a%20trace%20element,)%20and%20triiodothyronine%20(T3).
National Nutrition Council. 10 Kumainments [Jpeg]. National Nutrition Council. https://www.nnc.gov.ph/images/10kumainments/10kumainments_Cebuano.jpg
Nutrition: Effects of iodine deficiency. (2013, May 24). World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/nutrition-effects-of-iodine-deficiency#:%7E:text=Iodine%20deficiency%20is%20the%20main,ability%20to%20find%20a%20job.
