Srinagar, May 26: Lack of thyroid hormone during pregnancy can severely impact a baby’s brain development, warned Dr. Ashraf Ganaie, Director SKIMS, urging timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent lifelong intellectual and developmental challenges in newborns.
The noted endocrinologist, in his message on World Thyroid Day observed on May 25 to raise awareness about thyroid disorders, said that hyperthyroidism affects a small portion of the population but can have serious health consequences.
“Hyperthyroidism is seen in about 10 to 15 percent of the population, predominantly in women, and while it is generally not considered a dangerous disease, it still requires proper diagnosis and timely treatment,” he said.
Dr. Ganaie said that hypothyroidism is a treatable condition and can be effectively managed by taking thyroxine tablets daily. However, if patients fail to take the prescribed medication consistently, it can lead to serious health complications, including fatigue, weight gain, and in severe cases, organ dysfunction.
The Director further emphasized that during pregnancy, adequate levels of thyroid hormone are essential for the health of both the mother and the developing baby.
“A deficiency in these hormones can interfere with the proper brain development of the fetus, leading to long-term cognitive and developmental issues.”
According to medical experts, thyroid hormones play a critical role in the normal development of a baby’s brain and nervous system. During the first trimester—the initial three months of pregnancy—the fetus relies entirely on the mother’s supply of thyroid hormone, which is delivered through the placenta. “If there is no thyroid hormone present, the baby could be born with severe intellectual disabilities or mental retardation,” Dr. Ganaie warned.
“That is why a thyroid function test should be made mandatory at the time of birth. Early detection and treatment can significantly enhance a child’s intellectual potential and mental well-being,” he added. Doctors have emphasized that proper nutrition plays a fundamental role in maintaining thyroid health and preventing thyroid-related disorders. They noted that a balanced diet rich in specific nutrients can support the normal functioning of the thyroid gland and help maintain hormonal balance, which is critical for metabolism, growth, and overall well-being. Doctors urged people to include iodine-rich foods like iodized salt, dairy products, and seafood in their diets. Similarly, nuts, seeds, eggs, and whole grains can help supply other essential nutrients that support thyroid health. They stressed that awareness about dietary choices can significantly reduce the risk of thyroid disorders and aid in managing existing conditions more effectively, particularly in regions where thyroid disease is prevalent.
