Last Updated:May 25, 2025, 07:20 IST
World Thyroid Awareness Day is dedicated to educating the public on how thyroid diseases affect the body and the significance of early diagnosis and treatment.
World Thyroid Awareness Day 2025: The day was officially established in September 2007 during the Annual General Meeting held prior to the European Thyroid Association (ETA) congress. (File Pic)
World Thyroid Awareness Day 2025: Every year on may 25, World Thyroid Awareness Day is observed globally to highlight the importance of thyroid health and raise awareness about the symptoms and prevention of thyroid disorders. This day is dedicated to educating the public on how thyroid diseases affect the body and the significance of early diagnosis and proper treatment.
World Thyroid Awareness Day 2025: History
World Thyroid Awareness Day, observed annually on May 25, was officially established in September 2007 during the Annual General Meeting held prior to the European Thyroid Association (ETA) congress. The date wasn’t chosen at random, May 25 commemorates the founding of the ETA in 1965, giving the day historical significance.
The decision to mark this day was driven by the desire to improve global understanding of thyroid conditions and their effects on health. The ETA intended to use the occasion to inform and educate the public, medical professionals, and organisations about the prevention, symptoms and treatment of thyroid-related illnesses, while also promoting early detection and patient support.
World Thyroid Awareness Day 2025: Key Facts
- Objective: To spread awareness about thyroid diseases, promote education, and encourage early diagnosis and management.
- Date: Observed annually on May 25.
- Global Reach: Millions worldwide suffer from thyroid disorders, with women at higher risk than men.
- Common Types: The two most frequent disorders are hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
- Significance: The day fosters public education, medical engagement, and advocacy for improved thyroid care.
World Thyroid Awareness Day 2025: Symptoms Of Thyroid
Thyroid-related conditions can be challenging to detect, as their symptoms often mimic other health issues. The symptoms fall mainly into two categories based on hormone levels:
- Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
- Fatigue and low energy
- Unexplained weight gain
- Cold intolerance
- Dry skin and brittle hair
- Depressed mood
- Slowed heart rate
- Heavy or irregular periods
- Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Difficulty sleeping
- Weight loss despite normal eating
- Sensitivity to heat
- Sweaty or clammy skin
- Anxiety or irritability
- Missed or light menstrual periods
Both conditions may cause goiter, or swelling of the thyroid gland, which is more commonly seen in hyperthyroidism.
World Thyroid Awareness Day 2025: Diagnosis Of Thyroid
A healthcare provider will assess symptoms, review medical history, and conduct a physical examination—typically checking the thyroid gland for swelling or nodules. Diagnostic methods include:
- Blood Tests: Measures levels of TSH, T3, T4, and thyroid antibodies to evaluate thyroid function.
- Imaging Tests: Ultrasound helps detect nodules or gland enlargement; radioactive iodine scans identify overactive areas.
World Thyroid Awareness Day 2025: Treatment Options
Treatment strategies depend on the severity of the condition, patient health, age and personal preferences. Options include:
- Anti-thyroid Medications: Few drugs help to reduce thyroid hormone production. Treatment typically lasts 12–18 months, with some patients achieving long-term remission. However, rare side effects include liver damage or allergic reactions.
- Beta Blockers: These help manage symptoms such as tremors and rapid heart rate but do not affect hormone levels. They are not ideal for asthma patients and may cause fatigue or sexual dysfunction.
- Radioiodine Therapy: Taken orally, radioactive iodine shrinks the thyroid gland, often leading to hypothyroidism, which then requires lifelong hormone replacement.
- Thyroidectomy (Surgery): Partial or total removal of the thyroid, used when other treatments are unsuitable.
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