Thyroid disorders affect millions of Filipinos, yet very few are aware of them. One in 11 Filipino adults has goiter, and around one in 12 Filipino adults suffers from some form of thyroid disease. It is estimated that eight out of every 1000 children worldwide are affected by thyroid disease.

Awareness should never be overlooked because it could save someone’s life and help so many other people in the process. The International Thyroid Awareness Week (ITAW) is the perfect opportunity to learn more about how the thyroid gland and the thyroid disorders that affect one’s metabolism.

ITAW Infographic

Not a lot of people know how important the thyroid is when it comes to growth and development. The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped organ in the neck, and produces thyroid hormone. If something is wrong with the thyroid, it can result to hormonal imbalances that if undiagnosed and left untreated, can have a harmful effect on brain development, growth, puberty and well-being. The ITAW’s objective is to help mothers and pregnant women spot the signs and symptoms early so they can be cured treated and children can then live normal and healthy lives afterwards.

The two different thyroid disorders are HYPO, the green-blue, slow and sluggish butterfly which represents hypothyroidism; and HYPER, the pink, thin and overly active butterfly which represents hyperthyroidism.

The “Catching Butterflies” event covered more than just health awareness; there were tons of events that made it enjoyable. Going with the theme of pretty butterflies to represent the thyroid gland, there were exciting prizes, butterfly clay art, caricature, cookies, dance numbers, mascots, and so much more. The culminating event for the 2016 International Thyroid Awareness Week was held at the Fisher Mall Event Center on May 28, 2016, Saturday.

Apart from being very colorful, the two mascots show how thyroid disease can affect children’s minds, bodies and metabolism. The use of the HYPO and HYPER mascots made it easier for both children and parents to understand the difference between hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. It also got rid of the fear of disorders since it was much easier to grasp thanks to the mascots’ descriptions.

The main objective of the event was to raise awareness of thyroid disorders in children and in pregnant women. Apart from having a lecture, there was also a screening and a checkup for those with the symptoms of thyroid disorder, as well as consultation and compliance in treatment.

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