The Indian Thyroid Society (ITS) recently launched three guidelines for the Management of Thyroid Dysfunction in Pregnancy, Dyslipidemia and Depression at the 10th Annual Conference ‘ITSCON – 2013’. These guidelines are for managing thyroid dysfunction in Pregnancy to safeguard mother and child health and for patients of Depression and Dyslipidemia to reduce the co-morbidities associated with thyroid disorders.

Thyroid disorders in India are characterized by a high prevalence (approx. 11% of adult population), minimal diagnosis, low awareness and low involvement of doctors in treatment.

IMPORTANCE OF EARLY THYROID DETECTION

On the launch of the ITS Guidelines, Dr. R. V. Jayakumar, President, Indian Thyroid Society [ITS], Professor of Endocrinology, AIMS, Cochin said, “Conditions such as depression, cardiovascular disorders, high cholesterol, obesity, osteoporosis, infertility and miscarriages are linked to thyroid disorders and these are on the rise in India. The three independent guidelines for the screening and management of Thyroid Dysfunction will support the medical fraternity in diagnosis and treatment. Timely diagnosis of thyroid disorders in pregnant women is important for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy child. In addition, the guidelines for dyslipidemia and depression offer recommendations to minimize the risk of arising complications.”

Dr. Shashank Joshi, President Elect - The Association of Physicians of India [API], Mumbai says "Many hypothyroid patients have underlying lipid abnormalities which get controlled by simple thyroxine therapy. Hypothyroidism needs lifelong thyroxine therapy and if controlled well, the patients can lead a normal life." 

Dr. Manoj Chadha, Consultant Endocrinologist, P.D.Hinduja National Hospital, Mumbai said “It is important to recognize the symptoms of thyroid disorders and aim for an early diagnosis of the disease. Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to a number of health problems like goiter, poor productivity, decreased scholastic performance, growth disorders, heart disease, mental health issues and fertility issues like infertility or increased risk of abortions.  The new guidelines have specific recommendations for pregnant women and people suffering from co-morbid conditions like dyslipidemia, depression to get themselves screened and treated for thyroid disorders to curb further complications.”

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