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Friday, January 16, 2009
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Meet one of our experts: Nancy Elder, MD, Topic: Wellness Center
January – Thyroid Awareness Month
According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, 27 million Americans – mostly women - have an overactive or underactive thyroid gland. More than half of them are undiagnosed and not aware of the treatment available.
Hormones produced by the thyroid gland influence nearly every organ, tissue, and cell of the body. They regulate oxygen consumption and how rapidly or slowly organs work. When left untreated, thyroid disease can have serious consequences: elevated cholesterol, heart disease, infertility, muscle weakness, and osteoporosis. Coma or death can occur in extreme cases.
Recognizing the symptoms of thyroid disease and having your doctor check to see if your thyroid hormone levels are in balance are critical to your well-being. NetWellness is pleased to help advance your thyroid awareness. Please visit our Thyroid Diseases topic and the following NetWellness resources to make sure your thyroid is working properly.
Last Reviewed: 5 January 2009