Congenital hypothyroidism is affecting one in every 1,700 newborns, according to the National Neonatology Forum. If left untreated, this metabolic disorder can lead to mental retardation, which otherwise can be prevented with medical intervention at the right time. As the disease can easily be treated by giving thyroid hormone tablets, the focus is now on identifying newborns with thyroid problems at the earliest and put them on treatment.
Experts are now emphasising the need for screening newborns for thyroid disorders at birth. Dr Karthik Nagesh, chairperson, Task Force on New Born Screening, National Neonatology Forum, India, and head, neonatology, Manipal Hospital, said, "Our forum has recommended that screening newborns for congenital hypothyroidism should be made compulsory in the country at any level. If treatment is not initiated within one-and-a-half months of the birth, the disease has the potential to cause mental retardation."
"Congenital hypothyroidism must be diagnosed at the right time. If this is not done, it can lead to neurological and developmental disabilities. Since early diagnosis is the only solution, cord blood testing at birth can be a practical solution. Doctors need to educate parents regarding the significance of TSH thyroid testing for their babies at birth," said Dr Mala Dharmalingam, professor of endocrinology, MS Ramaiah Medical College and Hospital.
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, she added.
Lower child IQ is often the direct result of undiagnosed and untreated thyroid conditions, said experts. "With thyroid affecting newborns, expectant mothers should undergo thyroid testing as soon as pregnancy gets confirmed as thyroid disorder during pregnancy may affect the mother and the developing foetus," said Dr R V Jayakumar, president, The Indian Thyroid Society.
Thyroid disorders can be medically managed with effective treatment. This results not just in the management of symptoms but also in improving the quality of life of patients. The challenge ahead is to increase awareness of effective diagnosis at the right time, Dr Mala added.
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