AnaKalusugan party-list group Rep. Ray T. Reyes has cited the importance of early consultations to detect symptoms of goiter and other thyroid diseases.
Reyes, the vice chair of the House of Representatives Committee on Health, made the statement as the country observes Goiter Awareness Week which is held every 4th week of January of every year by virtue of Presidential Proclamation
1188.
“Early symptoms of goiter and thyroid diseases are often overlooked. And most of our patients only see doctors if their condition gets worse,” Reyes said.
“When it comes to diseases like goiter, early detection is key. That’s why we continue to promote in Anakalusugan the availability of free checkups for all Filipinos,” he stressed.
Reyes at the same time pushed for the passage of House Bill 430 providing free annual medical checkups for Filipinos.
The measure aims to establish a program that provides citizens with free annual check-ups including, but not limited to, blood sugar and cholesterol tests.
“Through free checkups and laboratory tests we will reduce hospitalization and improve the health of Filipinos,” Reyes said.
Apart from regular chec ups, the solon also urged the public to incorporate iodine rich foods in daily meals and to always eat meals in moderation.
“Pinggang Pinoy recommends that we eat a wide variety of fruits and vegetables and lessen the intake of salty, fried, fatty, and sugar-rich foods to prevent chronic diseases,” he added.
Goiter is a condition where the thyroid gland have an abnormal enlargement which can lead to the appearance of a mass or swelling in the neck.
The signs and symptoms vary and it may include tiredness, decrease or increase in weight, low or increased appetite, depression, dryness of skin and hair, sleepiness, diarrhea or constipation and menstrual irregularities for women.
If left untreated, this could lead to a more serious condition and even death among susceptible individuals.