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Every year on May 25, the global medical community comes together to observe World Thyroid Day—a crucial opportunity to raise awareness about thyroid diseases, promote early diagnosis, and empower people to take charge of their thyroid health. In 2025, the focus is on education, empowerment, and early intervention, themes that resonate more than ever as thyroid disorders continue to affect millions worldwide, often silently. This blog is a compilation of all the aspects related to it, including symptoms, causes, types of disorders and tips to promote thyroid health.
Synopsis
What is the Thyroid Gland?
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck. Though small in size, its role is enormous. It produces hormones (mainly T3 and T4) that regulate critical functions such as:
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Metabolism
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Heart rate
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Body temperature
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Energy production
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Menstrual health
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Mental health and mood
When the thyroid malfunctions, it can lead to a variety of health issues, some of which are chronic and potentially life-altering.
Common Thyroid Disorders
Understanding the types of thyroid disorders is key to early detection:
1. Hypothyroidism
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Underactive thyroid — not producing enough hormones.
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Symptoms: Fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, depression, and slow heart rate.
2. Hyperthyroidism
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Overactive thyroid — excess hormone production.
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Symptoms: Weight loss, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, sweating, and heat intolerance.
3. Goitre
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An abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland.
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Causes: Iodine deficiency, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, or Graves’ disease.
4. Thyroid Nodules and Cancer
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Nodules may be benign or malignant (cancerous).
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Often symptomless but can sometimes cause pain, difficulty swallowing, or voice changes.
Common Causes of Thyroid Disorders
1. Autoimmune Diseases
The immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland.
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis:
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The most common cause of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).
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The body attacks thyroid tissue, reducing hormone production.
Graves’ Disease:
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The most common cause of hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
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Antibodies overstimulate the thyroid to produce excess hormones.
2. Iodine Deficiency
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Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production.
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A lack of iodine (especially in inland or rural areas) can cause goitre and hypothyroidism.
3. Thyroid Nodules or Tumours
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Growths in the thyroid gland can be benign or cancerous.
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It may affect hormone levels or lead to structural problems like swelling or compression.
4. Radiation Exposure
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Radiation treatment for cancers (like head/neck cancer) or nuclear accidents can damage thyroid cells.
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Increases the risk of hypothyroidism and thyroid cancer.
5. Genetic Factors
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Thyroid disorders often run in families.
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People with a family history of thyroid disease or autoimmune conditions are at higher risk.
6. Pregnancy and Postpartum Changes
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Some women develop postpartum thyroiditis, a temporary thyroid inflammation after giving birth.
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Hormonal shifts can trigger temporary hyperthyroidism followed by hypothyroidism.
7. Pituitary Gland Disorders
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Rarely, problems with the pituitary gland (which regulates the thyroid through TSH) can lead to thyroid dysfunction.
Foods to Include in the Diet for Thyroid Health
Selenium supports thyroid hormone conversion and reduces inflammation.
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Sunflower seeds
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Whole wheat chapatis
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Brown rice
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Garlic – Adds selenium and supports immunity.
Iron-Rich Foods
Iron helps in the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
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Palak (spinach), methi (fenugreek), drumstick leaves
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Rajma (kidney beans) and chana (gram)
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Jaggery (gur) with roasted sesame seeds – a traditional combo
Healthy Fats & Vitamin D
Healthy fats help in hormone balance; vitamin D is vital for autoimmune thyroid issues.
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Desi ghee (in moderation)
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Coconut oil (especially in South Indian diets)
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Eggs and mushrooms (vitamin D sources)
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Sun exposure – 15–20 minutes daily
Antioxidant-Rich Fruits & Veggies
These fight oxidative stress and inflammation.
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Amla (Indian gooseberry) – Excellent for the immune system and thyroid
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Carrots, tomatoes, beets
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Berries (if available), pomegranate
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Turmeric – Use in dals and curries for its anti-inflammatory benefits
Consult our medical specialist at Manipal Hospitals, Gurugram, for treatment and care.
World Thyroid Day 2025: Why It Matters
Thyroid diseases affect an estimated 200 million people worldwide, yet many remain undiagnosed due to nonspecific symptoms and limited public knowledge. World Thyroid Day aims to bridge this gap by:
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Spreading public education
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Encouraging routine screening
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Supporting thyroid patients and caregivers
Raising Awareness
This year’s focus is not just on physical symptoms but also on mental health implications, such as:
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Anxiety and depression in hyperthyroid patients.
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Cognitive slowing and mood swings in hypothyroid individuals.
Empowering Through Early Detection
Early diagnosis allows for timely treatment and greatly improves quality of life. World Thyroid Day encourages:
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Regular TSH blood tests
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Awareness of family history
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Self-checks for lumps or irregularities in the neck
Conclusion
World Thyroid Day 2025 is more than just a date—it’s a movement toward better health and informed choices. Thyroid disorders may be common, but they are treatable and often preventable when recognised early. By promoting awareness, we can ensure that more people live healthier, balanced lives, free from the complications of undiagnosed thyroid conditions.
Consult our specialist at Manipal Hospitals, Gurugram, for tailored treatments and care.
FAQ's
At-risk groups include:
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Women (especially age 30+ and postpartum)
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People with a family history of thyroid or autoimmune diseases
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Those with iodine deficiency
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Individuals exposed to radiation or with low selenium intake
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Patients with diabetes or PCOS
In India, women are up to 10 times more likely to develop thyroid issues than men, hence, it is essential to take care of your health.
Diagnosis is typically done through:
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Blood tests: TSH, T3, T4
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Anti-TPO antibodies: For autoimmune thyroid disease
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Ultrasound or scan: If nodules or swelling are found
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Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA): For suspicious lumps
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Hypothyroidism: Usually requires lifelong medication (levothyroxine) but is well-managed with regular monitoring.
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Hyperthyroidism: May be temporary or treated with medications, radioiodine, or surgery.
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Goitre/nodules: Depends on the cause—some shrink with treatment; others need surgery.
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Autoimmune thyroiditis: Can be controlled but not "cured." With proper care, most people lead normal, healthy lives.
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Cabbage
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Cauliflower
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Broccoli
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Kale
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Mustard greens (sarson)
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Soy milk
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Tofu
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Soya chunks (nuggets)
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Soy flour
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Maida (refined flour)
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Packaged snacks
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Frozen ready meals
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Refined sugar items
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Strong coffee
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Energy drinks
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