Go Against Goiter:
Goiter Awareness Week 2024

By Mellisa Mikaela Miclat | January 21, 2024

Goiter is a health condition characterized by an enlarged thyroid, a gland that produces hormones responsible for the body’s metabolism, thermoregulation, digestion, mood, and heart rate. In the Philippines, 8.9% of the adult population have a goiter. To raise awareness of this health concern, Presidential Proclamation No. 1188 states that Goiter Awareness Week shall be observed every fourth week of January.

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The most common cause of goiter among Filipinos is iodine deficiency. Iodine is a mineral and an essential component of thyroid hormones. Iodine is found in dairy products, shellfish, eggs, bread, and meat. Furthermore, to address the iodine-deficiency concern in the country, Republic Act No. 8172, or “An Act for Salt Iodization Nationwide” (ASIN Law), mandates that salt manufacturers and producers ionize their products.

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Most goiters are asymptomatic, aside from a visible lump in the front of the neck. However, some may have hoarseness, tightness in the throat, neck vein swelling, coughing, difficulty breathing, and swallowing. It is important to seek medical consultation once these signs and symptoms are observed to immediately get treatment, and prevent complications.