GSK sees prevalence of congenital hypothyroidism as a critical public health issue and is now working to create public awareness on the same. It is now working with endocrinologists across the country to drive home the need for early detection.

Worldwide congenital hypothyroidism affects 1 in 3,800 new born babies, according to an ICMR study, India reports 1 in 1172.

There is need to ensure mandatory screening for congenital hypothyroidism. When diagnosed early and treated adequately, children born with the condition can experience normal physical growth and neurological development. It is a simple test available in many hospitals and laboratories across India, said Dr Sudeep Acharya, medical advisor, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals.

In Karnataka, the company organised an event at Bengaluru to highlight congenital hypothyroidism and the benefits of neonatal screening. An expert medical panel representing Dr K M Prasanna Kumar, consultant endocrinologist, Center For Diabetes & Endocrine Care Endocrinology Clinic, Prof P Raghupathy, paediatric endocrinologist, Indira Gandhi Institute Of Child Health and Dr Shaila S Bhattacharyya, paediatric endocrinologist, Manipal Hospital were present to deliberate on the condition in new born babies.

In the neonatal stage , thyroid hormones are extremely important for brain development and overall growth. Although the babies appear normal at birth, even if there is complete lack of development of the thyroid gland. This is because a small amount of thyroid hormone (T4) from the mother is transferred to the baby during pregnancy. Once a baby is diagnosed with the condition, it is  immediately started on thyroid hormone replacement. Most of the children with congenital hypothyroidism need to take thyroid hormones lifelong. Early diagnosis and adequate treatment from the first weeks of life result in normal growth and intelligence, said the expert panel of specialists.

Most cases cannot be prevented. However, to reduce the risk, during pregnancy and under the strict guidance of the doctor, mothers should consume enough iodine.  They should be careful to not have radioactive iodine treatment or use iodine as antiseptic, pointed out the medical experts.

Once a baby is diagnosed with congenital hypothyroidism, the baby is immediately started on thyroid hormone replacement. Levothyroxine given orally is the treatment of choice. Levothyroxine is a synthetic thyroid hormone that is similar to the hormone made by a thyroid gland, the medical experts.