Things You Should Know About World Thyroid Day 2023

With changing lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits, the number of health problems has been constantly rising. Thyroid disease is one such common health problem that results in hormonal imbalance and can adversely affect the human body. So, in order to spread awareness about Thyroid and its prevention, 25th May is celebrated as World Thyroid Day. Read on to know more.

What is Thyroid?

The thyroid is a gland or an organ in the human body responsible for the secretion of hormones. It plays a vital role in the growth and metabolic activities of the human body. The vital function of the thyroid gland is to secrete hormones and regulate the functions of the human body. When the thyroid gland functions appropriately and secretes the adequate amount of each hormone, all body functions are carried out smoothly. The problem begins in the human body when there is an unwanted increase or decrease in the number of hormones secreted by the thyroid gland. There are two major diseases related to the thyroid gland, i.e. Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a state in which the thyroid gland is relatively inactive, and the level of hormones produced is less than the required amount. As a result, there arises a certain disorder in the human body. Some of the major causes of Hypothyroidism are as follows:

• Autoimmune disease, i.e. Hashimoto Thyroiditis is a significant reason for hypothyroidism. It is a case of the production of antibodies by the immune system of the body which can harm the own tissues of the body.  If this involves the thyroid gland, then it reduces the hormone production by the gland. 
• Medications like Lithium, which is given for psychiatric disorders, can lead to hypothyroidism.
• Radiation Therapy, which is used for the treatment of cancer, can even be a reason for hypothyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a state of increased activity of the thyroid gland leading to excessive production of hormones in the body. Hyperthyroidism leads to weight loss and affects the body’s metabolism. Some of the common causes of Hyperthyroidism are as follows:

• Grave’s disease which is a type of autoimmune disease is a common cause of Hyperthyroidism.
• Overactive thyroid nodules are a condition in which the thyroid adenoma results in the production of excessive thyroid hormones, thus leading to Hyperthyroidism.
• Thyroiditis is a state in which the thyroid gland gets inflamed and thus leads to Hyperthyroidism as well. 

About World Thyroid Day 2023

According to reports published by the American Thyroid Association, 1 out of every 10 individuals is affected by Thyroid disease. The data indicates how important it is to educate people about it, thus 25th May of every year is observed as World Thyroid Day. On the occasion of World Thyroid Day, health experts from all over conduct seminars and awareness camps to educate people about Thyroid, its prevention, and treatment. 

The history of the World Thyroid Day dates back to 1965. However, it was in 2007, when Thyroid Federation International declared 25th May as World Thyroid Day in honour of the European Thyroid Association. The European Thyroid Association was formed back in 1965. So, ever since 2007, 25th May has been celebrated as World Thyroid Day. 

Key Facts About World Thyroid Day

Why Do You Need A Health Insurance For Thyroid?

With a constant rise in medical expenses, it is very important to safeguard yourself against health problems. Thyroid which has now become a common health problem requires diagnostic tests at various levels. Thus, to get financial coverage for all such expenses related to the diagnosis and treatment of Thyroid, it is best to buy health insurance plans that provide the necessary coverage. A number of health insurance companies like Bharti AXA Health Insurance, Care Health Insurance, and others now offer health insurance plans that cover Thyroid. The benefits availed from these plans will give the policyholder a sigh of relief during the tough time of thyroid diagnosis and treatment.

Summing Up

So, invest in the right health insurance plan that covers thyroid as well as lead a healthy life, exercise, eat a healthy diet and follow other measures to reduce the risk of Thyroid. This World Thyroid Day 2023, let us thus pledge to lead a healthy lifestyle.

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