SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA - 7 January 2026 - In honor of Thyroid Awareness Month, St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies, is shining a spotlight on empowering South Koreans to have a greater awareness of thyroid disorders, conditions that often go undiagnosed despite their widespread prevalence.

Thyroid diseases, particularly hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid), are among the most underdiagnosed health issues worldwide, with 150,000 people accumulated from 1998-2021 in South Korea alone. Yet, due to the subtle and often nonspecific nature of symptoms such as fatigue, unexplained weight changes, hair loss, and mood fluctuations, many individuals live for years without realizing they have a thyroid problem.

Early Detection in Thyroid Disease Diagnosis

Timely diagnosis of thyroid disorders can make a profound difference. When detected and treated promptly, patients can avoid serious complications from thyroid disorders, including infertility, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic imbalance.

Healthcare professionals recommend that adults, especially those over age 35 or with a family history of thyroid disease, include thyroid function tests as part of their annual health screenings. These simple blood tests measure hormone levels and allow doctors to spot potential dysfunction before it progresses.

Preventive steps may include:

Scheduling regular thyroid screening

Maintaining balanced iodine intake

Monitoring persistent or unexplained symptoms

Managing stress levels

Following a healthy diet and staying physically active

Avoiding excessive or unregulated supplement use

How SGU Prepares Future Doctors for Comprehensive Preventive Care

SGU’s comprehensive curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical experience, enabling students to identify subtle indicators that may indicate underlying thyroid dysfunction or other endocrine disorders.

SGU encourages the public to actively recognize the critical importance of thyroid health and vigorously promote a culture of preventive care, thereby empowering communities to achieve greater well-being. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and practicing self-health awareness, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing thyroid disorders and establish enduring habits for long-term health.

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