World Thyroid Day 2018: Thyroid is not just another lifestyle disorder but a common ailment, say experts

It has been estimated that about 42 million in the country today suffer from various forms of thyroid diseases.

By: Editorial Team | | Updated: May 25, 2018 12:33 pm

Thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped gland in front of the neck, wrapped around the windpipe, an apt position for an organ, which holds immense importance when it comes to regulating the metabolism. Today thyroid disorders have become a common point of discussion in Indian households, especially urban India, which tells us about its spread as well. It has been estimated that about 42 million in the country today suffer from various forms of thyroid diseases.

Common Thyroid Issues

Five types of thyroid disorders which are common today – Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Iodine-deficiency related disorders like goitre, Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and thyroid cancer.

Thyroid gland secretes two hormones- T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), which regulate the temperature of the body, metabolism as well as the heart rate. Thyroid gland is in turn regulated by pituitary gland in the brain, which secretes thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). When there is overbalance or under-balance of these hormones in the body, it leads to thyroid diseases.

Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to poor metabolism. In contrast, hyperthyroidism is when the thyroid gland gets overworked and produced excess of the thyroid hormones leading to an overactive metabolism. Since iodine is an essential component of the thyroid hormones, the deficiency of this vital mineral can lead to disorders like goitre. This is why it is recommended to consume iodised salt, to eliminate iodine deficiency. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis occurs when the immune system starts attacking the thyroid gland leading to its gradual deterioration. Thyroid cancer is the cancer of the thyroid gland, which can be due to many factors such as environmental as well as genetic.

This brings us to an interesting analysis- while genetic propensity does affect a person’s chances of developing a thyroid disorder; environmental factors play a key role, when it comes to causation of thyroid diseases.

It will not be imprudent to say that today thyroid diseases have also fallen under the blanket of lifestyle diseases because of associated disorders like diabetes, hypertension and lipid disorders. Improper diet, such as fast foods, which are high in calorie, but lack essential vitamins and minerals leads to improper functioning of the body as well as overweight and obesity. But the unhealthy eating trends have become commonplace these days and contribute to the development of diseases like thyroid. Thyroid gland requires adequate iodine for production of thyroid hormones. There are many vitamins and minerals which play a crucial role in formation of thyroid hormones. If one does not consume a balanced meal with all the essential nutrients in appropriate proportions, then it paves way for thyroid disorders to take root.

Exercise is another essential requirement for maintaining good health. Too much sitting is like poison, which slowly destroys the body. Exercise has a great positive effect on metabolism and as the organ which regulates metabolism; thyroid gland is directly affected by how much time a person devotes to exercise.

The functioning of thyroid gland is affected by other hormones in the body. Irregularity or abnormal hormonal levels can adversely affect this endocrine gland leading to thyroid disorders. Chemical pollutants in the air, water and even food can affect the functioning of thyroid as they are endocrine disrupters. Even x-rays in excess can lead to mutation in the thyroid cells, increasing the risk of cancer. One should be careful about the quality of food and water consumed. It is important to immediately seek medical advice if one suspects that they have been in contact with chemical pollutants.

Published: May 25, 2018 11:50 am | Updated:May 25, 2018 12:33 pm

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