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India Calls for Preventative Thyroid Care

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  Published in Science and Technology on Tuesday, February 10th 2026 at 5:20 GMT by Daily
      Locales: Delhi, INDIA

Goa, India - February 10th, 2026 - Union Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, today inaugurated the 38th Annual Conference of the Indian Thyroid Society (ITS) in Goa, issuing a strong call for a fundamental shift in India's approach to healthcare, specifically focusing on preventive measures and early detection of thyroid disorders. The conference, attracting over 1500 thyroid specialists from India and across the globe, serves as a crucial forum for the exchange of knowledge and the development of cutting-edge strategies in thyroid care.

Addressing the opening session, Dr. Singh emphasized the often-overlooked potential of proactive healthcare. For too long, he argued, the Indian medical system has been largely reactive, addressing illnesses after they manifest, rather than implementing strategies to prevent their onset or catch them in their earliest, most treatable stages. He specifically highlighted thyroid disorders, conditions affecting millions of Indians, as prime examples where a preventative and early detection focus could dramatically improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on the healthcare system.

"We need to move away from a 'sick care' model to a 'health care' model," Dr. Singh stated. "This requires a mindset shift - a commitment to wellness and preventative screening, especially for conditions like thyroid dysfunction, which often present with subtle or easily dismissed symptoms."

The prevalence of thyroid disorders in India is significant. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) are increasingly common, often linked to factors such as iodine deficiency (although this is becoming less prevalent due to iodization programs), genetic predisposition, and lifestyle factors including stress and diet. These conditions, if left undiagnosed and untreated, can lead to a range of complications, including cardiovascular disease, infertility, depression, and cognitive impairment.

Dr. Singh also underscored the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific advancements in thyroid care. India boasts a rich history of Ayurvedic and traditional medicine, and he believes these systems hold valuable insights that can complement and enhance conventional medical practices. "We must not dismiss the wisdom of our ancestors," he explained. "There is a wealth of knowledge embedded in traditional systems that can inform our research and improve patient care, especially when integrated with the rigor of modern scientific methodology."

The Minister directly appealed to researchers attending the conference to prioritize the development of indigenous solutions. He highlighted the need for diagnostic tools and treatment protocols specifically tailored to the Indian population, taking into account genetic diversity, dietary habits, and environmental factors. This call for "Make in India" healthcare solutions aligns with the government's broader push for self-reliance and innovation in the scientific and medical fields.

This year's ITS conference agenda features a comprehensive program covering a wide spectrum of topics, including the latest advancements in thyroid diagnostics, surgical techniques, medical management of thyroid disorders, and the role of artificial intelligence in thyroid cancer detection. Dedicated sessions are also planned for discussing the impact of environmental toxins on thyroid function and the challenges of managing thyroid disorders in pregnancy.

Organizers hope that the conference will not only facilitate the sharing of cutting-edge research but also serve as a catalyst for collaborative initiatives aimed at raising public awareness about thyroid disorders and improving access to quality thyroid care throughout India. They aim to establish guidelines for nationwide thyroid screening programs and to empower healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to accurately diagnose and effectively manage these increasingly prevalent conditions. The long-term vision is a healthier India, with fewer individuals suffering from preventable and treatable thyroid disorders.