Doctors come together to discuss on new born screening for Congenital Hypothyroidism

Early screening on CH in new born can avert physical and mental retardation

The government needs to mandate new born screening pan India for Congenital Hypothyroidism (CH), as delayed diagnosis lead to permanent mental and physical retardation. Highlighting about CH and the importance of newborn screening, organised by GlaxoSmithKline, experts informed that it is one of the few conditions which can be identified through early screening of new born but if left undetected and untreated, can leave permanent damage mentally and physically. Most new born babies with CH 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. Around 10 per cent of infants with CH have other associated abnormalities; most commonly witnessed are cardiac abnormalities followed by abnormalities of the nervous system and eyes.

Dr Rajesh Khadgawat, Additional Professor, Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Dr Anju Virmani, Senior Consultant Diabetologist and Endocrinologist, All India Institute of Medical Sciences and Dr Ganesh S Jevalikar, Consultant (Paediatric Endocrinology), Medanta Division of Endocrinology & Diabetes, came together to evaluate associated risks and minimise possible threats for CH by early intervention.

Stressing on the current situation in the country, Dr Khadgawat said, “CH is one of the few conditions which can be identified through newborn screening, but if left undetected and untreated can leave permanent damages. The first few years of a child’s life are extremely crucial for mental and physical development. If adequate amount of the thyroid hormone is not available, the human brain cannot develop normally. A child who is diagnosed and treated at a later stage will catch up on physical growth, but will lack appropriate mental development. Therefore, early identification, diagnosis and treatment are essential.”

Stressing on the importance of timely identification and treatment, Dr Virmani said, “CH is one of the most detrimental causes of mental retardation. Studies have demonstrated that if the child is treated adequately and procedures are completed by three months, the child will attain normal mental development. CH is easy to diagnose and treat. That is why we need to create awareness amongst masses. There is a need to have a legislation which mandates universal screening programme for newborns.”

On a concluding note, Dr Jevalikar said, “A life free from CH is a birth right of every child. Newborn screening which can help detect condition like CH should be mandated in India. The level of awareness is increasing, but it is still low. Paediatricians have taken it up to themselves to educate parents to be on CH and newborn screening. The situation on ground is much worse than what studies reveal. A new study shows that 1 in 1000-1500 children suffer from CH. A simple test to detect CH within two to five days of is essential. Delayed diagnosis leads to permanent mental retardation. Also, after diagnosis, treatment is simple, inexpensive and extremely effective. Almost all developed countries practice universal new born screening for CH and it should be mandated in India as well. A lifelong affordable treatment can help a child lead a normal life.”

EH News Bureau