Watch out for thyroid disorders – DOH

The Department of Health (DOH) is encouraging individuals who are experiencing signs and symptoms of thyroid disorders to promptly seek medical attention.

“Thyroid disorders are preventable but can lead to the development of diseases like goiter, heart diseases, infertility, and congenital hyperthyroidism if left untreated,” said Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, as the country joins the rest of the world in marking International Thyroid Awareness Week from May 21 to 27.

Thyroid disorders include hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, thyroid nodules or goiter, and thyroid cancer, the health department stated.

The common warning signs include fatigue, increased sensitivity to cold, constipation, dry skin, weight gain, puffy face, hoarseness of voice, muscle pain and weakness, joint pains and stiffness, thinning of hair, slowed heart rate, depression, and impaired memory, the DOH said.

The DOH said that “thyroid disorders still affect a significant segment of Philippine society.”

“According to the 2012 Philippine Thyroid Diseases Study (PhilTiDes-1), the prevalence of thyroid function abnormalities in the Philippines is 8.53 percent among adult population,” the health department stated.

Meanwhile, the International Thyroid Awareness Week is being observed worldwide that began last May 21 up to May 27.

The annual campaign is being observed to raise awareness on the different thyroid disorders.