Recap: Thyroid Advocates Convene in Singapore to Explore Impact on Maternal and Infant Health 

Alongside the National Coalition for Infant Health, experts from Australia, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore and the United States discussed: 

• The prevalence and burden of hypothyroidism  

• Barriers to education, screening and treatment 

• Strategies to prioritize thyroid disease as a priority NCD.
  

Hypothyroidism poses a severe risk, in particular, for women and infants. Left untreated while pregnant, it increases the risk of miscarriage, pregnancy-induced hypertension, preterm birth and low birth weight. Without enough thyroid hormones for proper growth and development, fetal growth is delayed and can lead to life-long intellectual disabilities, impaired motor function and more.  

In the Asia-Pacific Region, the prevalence of hypothyroidism is higher compared to other parts of the world. Early screening and treatment are vital to reduce long-term consequences. Additionally, prevention efforts such as salt iodization and proper nutrition may help alleviate the burden of thyroid disease. 

Participants advocated for thyroid disease to be prioritized as a noncommunicable disease by the World Health Organization to ensure better access to education, screening, diagnosis and treatment. They also recognized the need for a formally recognized awareness day to bring attention and urge action. 

Patients, advocates, policymakers and healthcare providers must come together to ensure greater education and awareness of hypothyroidism and remove barriers to care. Doing so would not only improve the lives of patients in the Asia-Pacific region, but also for patients globally.