BANGALORE: With increase in the Thyroid disorders among new born babies, the city-based endocrinologists lay emphasis on the screening of neonates (Newborn babies).Every year, May 25 is being observed as World Thyroid Day. The endocrinologists maintain Congenital Hypothyroidism should be diagnosed at the right time.It can lead to neurological and developmental disabilities later, if the screening is delayed, they observe.Since early diagnosis is the only solution and endocrinologists maintain that the need of the hour is for doctors to educate parents regarding the significance of TSH Thyroid Testing for their babies at birth.Any form of early diagnosis and treatment can save the child from developing serious health issues later in life.Congenital Hypothyroidism is a metabolic disorder in the newborn and is one of the major causes of preventable mental retardation. Realizing the importance of early detection, the medical fraternity is now emphasizing on the need of screening for thyroid disorders at birth.Endocrinologists also maintain that, though the universal screening of thyroid for new born is mandatory, but in rural and peripheries the screening of neonates has not been done still."Though continuous efforts are underway across India to screen as many newborns as possible at birth for Thyroid disorders but in many hospitals in peripheries and villages it is still not being done," says Dr Mala Dharmalingam, Professor of Endocrinology at M S Ramaiah Medical College and Hospital.Dr Mala also says that women who are not able to conceive or those who are not able to shed those extra kilos despite rigorous exercises should also get themselves screened for Thyroidism.Speaking about the misconception about the disease, she added: "It is not compulsory that newborns will have Thyroid disorders if their mothers have it."It is estimated that untreated thyroid disorders are very common and 4.2 crore Indians are suffering from Thyroid disorders with almost 90 per cent of cases being undiagnosed.The identified area of concern is Congenital Hypothyroidism, a condition attacking huge number of newborns in the country.Dr R V Jayakumar, President of The Indian Thyroid Society (ITS), says: "A lower child IQ is often the direct result of undiagnosed and untreated thyroid conditions. All expectant mothers should undergo thyroid testing as soon as their pregnancy gets confirmed as thyroid disorder during pregnancy may affect the mother and the developing foetus."
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