World Thyroid Day (WTD) is observed annually across the globe on May 25 to raise global awareness about thyroid disorders and emphasize early detection and treatment.
- This day is part of International Thyroid Awareness Week (ITAW), held from May 25 to 31, and is spearheaded by the Thyroid Federation International (TFI), a global non-profit organization
Awareness Symbol: Blue Paisley Ribbon
The blue paisley ribbon is the symbol for thyroid awareness. The paisley design was chosen because it resembles a cross-section of thyroid follicles, representing the gland’s structure.
Background:
i.The European Thyroid Association (ETA) established World Thyroid Day (WTD) in 2008, choosing May 25 to coincide with the founding date of the ETA in 1965.
ii.In 2010, the American Thyroid Association (ATA), the Latin American Thyroid Society (LATS), and the Asia & Oceania Thyroid Association (AOTA) officially endorsed WTD during the International Thyroid Congress held in Paris, France.
iii.The first WTD was observed by ATA, ETA, AOTA, and LATS on May 25, 2011.
International Thyroid Awareness Week (ITAW):
i.International Thyroid Awareness Week is observed from May 25 to May 31 each year.
ii.ITAW was conceptualized by Thyroid Federation International (TFI) in collaboration with Merck-Serono in 2008 and officially announced during a press conference at the 11th European Congress of Endocrinology in Istanbul in April 2009.
iii.The first ITAW was observed from May 25 to May 31, 2009.
iv.The campaign is endorsed by organizations such as ETA, ATA, LATS, AOTA, the Chinese Society of Endocrinology (CSE), and the Chinese Society of Nuclear Medicine (CSNM).
What is Thyroid?
i.The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the neck, just below the voice box (larynx).
ii.It is a vital part of the endocrine system, which regulates various hormones in the human body.
iii.The thyroid gland secretes hormones such as Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate several vital bodily functions, including metabolism, energy production, reproductive functions, body temperature and growth.
Common Thyroid Disorders:
i.Hypothyroidism: Occurs when the thyroid gland produces less than the required amount of hormones, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and depression. In India, congenital hypothyroidism occurs in approximately 1 in 2,640 neonates.
ii.Hyperthyroidism: Occurs when the gland produces more than the normal level of hormones, resulting in weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and nervousness.
iii.Goitre: An enlargement of the thyroid gland, often due to iodine deficiency. 7.5% of Indian girls with goitre have autoimmune thyroiditis
iv.Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: An autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism.
v.Thyroid Cancer: Involves malignant growth in the thyroid gland. Accounts for 1–2% of global cancers; early detection ensures 95% survival rate.
Prevention and Management Strategies:
i.Diet: Maintain a balanced diet rich in iodine (salt, seafood), selenium (nuts), and iron (leafy greens).
ii.Lifestyle: Avoid smoking, limit alcohol, manage stress, and maintain vitamin D levels.
iii.Screening: Regular thyroid function tests (TSH, T3, T4) for high-risk groups (pregnant women, seniors).
Global Data on Thyroid Disorders:
i.Globally, 200 million people suffer from thyroid diseases, including 42 million in India.
ii.Women are 5–8 times more vulnerable due to hormonal fluctuations.
iii.Government of India (GoI) led salt iodization reduced congenital hypothyroidism in Uttar Pradesh (UP). However, metro cities like Mumbai(Maharashtra) report rising cases due to lifestyle factors.
Upcoming Event:
i.The 17th International Thyroid Congress (ITC 2025) is scheduled to take place from 18th to 22nd June 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
ii.The event is organized by LATS and co-sponsored by ATA, ETA, and AOTA.
Note: ITC is a global held every five years, rotating among the co-sponsoring societies.
About Thyroid Federation International (TFI):
Thyroid Federation International (TFI) is a global non-profit network comprising over 30 patient organizations from across all continents, dedicated to supporting and advocating for thyroid patients worldwide.
President – Ashok Bhaseen
Headquarters – Ontario, Canada
Founded – 1995
