Raising Awareness: A Crucial Step Toward Early Diagnosis and Effective Management of Thyroid Disorders

June 4, 2025 — Tehran, Iran
On the occasion of World Thyroid Day, commemorated annually on May 25, Professor Bagher Larijani, Director of the Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute (EMRI) at Tehran University of Medical Sciences, emphasized the critical role of public awareness in the early detection and effective treatment of thyroid disorders.

Speaking to the EMRI Public Relations Office, Prof. Larijani highlighted the high prevalence of thyroid dysfunctions in Iran, particularly among women. “National studies reveal a significant portion of the population suffers from undiagnosed thyroid conditions, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism,” he noted.

Prof. Larijani explained that hypothyroidism, if left untreated, may result in symptoms such as chronic fatigue, depression, weight gain, and impaired cognitive function. In children, the consequences extend to growth retardation and neurodevelopmental delays. He stressed the importance of targeted screening, particularly among high-risk groups such as pregnant women and individuals with a family history of thyroid disease.

In line with EMRI’s mission, various educational and research initiatives have been implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Health to enhance thyroid disease management across the country. Prof. Larijani called for routine testing and regular medical follow-up, urging the public to take early symptoms seriously and seek timely medical advice.

Touching on diagnostic advancements, he stated that simple blood tests measuring TSH, T3, and T4 levels are often sufficient for diagnosis. In more complex cases, thyroid ultrasound, scintigraphy, or fine-needle aspiration biopsy may be necessary.

Therapeutic approaches vary depending on the specific disorder. Levothyroxine replacement therapy remains the standard for hypothyroidism, while antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, and in some cases, surgery are considered for hyperthyroidism.

“The cornerstone of successful treatment lies in consistent follow-up and dose adjustments based on laboratory values,” Prof. Larijani stressed. “This is especially crucial for pregnant women, where optimal thyroid hormone levels are vital for fetal development.”

He praised the national healthcare system for providing accessible diagnostic and treatment services, while acknowledging the persistent need for enhanced public education and regular monitoring to prevent complications.

Prof. Larijani also underscored the emerging impact of precision medicine in thyroid care. “Through the integration of genetic, molecular, and clinical data, patient-specific diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are becoming a reality,” he explained. Genetic and molecular testing can refine disease classification, predict treatment response, and guide individualized care pathways.

“Personalized hormone replacement, genetically-informed targeted therapies for thyroid cancer, and precision-based management of autoimmune thyroid diseases are now within reach,” he added. Advances in artificial intelligence and imaging technologies are further enhancing diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning. While challenges such as cost and data privacy remain, these innovations promise minimally invasive, efficient, and patient-centered care with improved outcomes and quality of life.

World Thyroid Day, initiated by the European Thyroid Association (ETA) and supported by global organizations such as the American Thyroid Association (ATA) and the Thyroid Federation International (TFI), aims to increase public awareness of thyroid disorders, promote screening initiatives, and support individuals living with thyroid disease.