Goiter Myths and Facts

CEBU, Philippines – At one time or another, you may have encountered a person with a large mass in the neck. The usual notion would be that the person is suffering from goiter. Goiter refers to the swelling of the thyroid gland, a small gland located in the lower part of the neck. The human thyroid gland produces thyroid hormones needed by the body.

A person may have different types of goiter - depending on whether there are symptoms caused by a deficit or surplus in the production of making thyroid hormones, and if a tumor growth is present or not. If there is an excess in thyroid hormones, it is called "hyperthyroidism," and if deficient, "hypothyroidism."

When a person has goiter, thyroid gland is still functioning but its production of the two important hormones, thyroxine and triiodotyronine, would be irregular. These two hormones keep blood vessels flowing, regulates the metabolism of the body, help keep proper use of body fats and carbohydrates, maintains correct body temperature and normal heartbeat.

Common myths and facts about goiter:

Myth: One can develop goiter by excessive talking, shouting, or singing.

Fact: The thyroid is located differently from the voice box or vocal cords. Excessive or too much use of the vocal cords does not affect thyroid size. However, a big goiter or some thyroid problems can impinge on the voice.

Myth: Eating lots of seafood can thwart goiter.

Fact: Seafoods are vital because they are rich in iodine, but they cannot shrivel goiters.

Many goiters are not due to lack of iodine. It is important to consult the doctor to find out the cause of goiter. In fact, too much iodine can also cause other thyroid problems in susceptible people.

Myth: Eating seafoods can cure goiter.

Fact: Again, seafoods are rich sources of iodine. A patient who is iodine deficient may develop goiter but eating seafoods alone cannot cure goiter.

Myth: Goiter can be caused by bearing down during labor.

Fact: Pregnant women who lack iodine may develop a goiter to compensate for impaired or damaged thyroid function. Others may have an existing familial tendency to have a goiter that's triggered by hormonal changes during pregnancy.

Myth: Goiter can b passed from mother to baby.

Fact: Babies might be directly affected by some types of goiter but majority are not affected if the mother's thyroid problem is properly treated and monitored. All babies are now regularly screened for thyroid dysfunction even if their mothers do not have goiter.

Earlier studies indicated the Philippines as one of the countries in Asia found with high rates of goiter and iodine shortage disorders. At the same time, the government was able to identify that the gap between a regular citizen and the medical treatment and prevention of goiter was caused by expensive fees, unreachable facilities, and need for technical skills and expertise of health providers. Thus, in December 2006, Proclamation 1188 was signed.

Initially, the Department of Health was assigned as the lead agency responsible for the yearly celebration, and tasked to harmonize with Philippine Thyroid Association, Philippine Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Philippine Society of Nuclear Medicine, and the International Council for the Control of Iodine Deficiency Disorders -Philippines for the guidelines and logistics needed for the celebration aimed at promoting information on goiter and other iodine deficiency disorders.

The goiter caused by iodine deficiency can be prevented by eating fish, crab, shrimp, oysters, squid, sea vegetables (seaweed) and other foods rich in iodine. Using salt with iodine or iodized salt is also advisable to prevent goiter. The Iodine compounds are absolutely necessary for normal growth and well-being of our body and brain.