Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that thyroid disorders are a significant national issue affecting productivity, demographics, and nation-building. He urged the Indian Thyroid Society and the broader medical community to enhance awareness, research collaboration, and early detection efforts. Dr. Singh addressed endocrinologists at an Indian Thyroid Society conference, highlighting the impact of undiagnosed thyroid conditions, especially hypothyroidism, on energy levels and workforce efficiency, particularly in a country where over 70% of the population is under 40 years old.
As approximately 42 million Indians are currently dealing with thyroid disorders, Singh stressed the need for extensive research and a robust public health response to tackle this challenge effectively. He called for enhanced multidisciplinary coordination among life sciences, medical sciences, and related sectors to comprehensively address thyroid disorders. Dr. Singh emphasized that issues of this magnitude cannot be confined to a single domain and require broad societal awareness and institutional collaboration.
Hypothyroidism impacts nearly 11% of adults, with many cases going undiagnosed. The undetected presence of hypothyroidism during pregnancy can lead to congenital hypothyroidism and irreversible neurodevelopmental issues in children. The minister also highlighted India’s Biopharma Shakti Mission, the country’s advancements in biotechnology, the establishment of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation, and a Research Development and Innovation framework worth Rs 1 lakh crore to bolster research with private and philanthropic involvement.
Singh pointed out India’s strides in biotechnology, including the development of the nation’s first indigenously-produced antibiotic effective against resistant infections, successful gene therapy trials for haemophilia, and the deployment of a DNA vaccine during the COVID-19 pandemic.
