Thyroidism Awareness And Support Initiative Holds Public Lecture

Two weeks ago,at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Conference & Exhibition Center, Alausa, Ikeja, the Thyroidism Awareness and Support Initiative, (TASI) held it’s maiden Public Lecture.

The initiative, founded by Lady Iruoma Ofortube, the Executive Director, Thyroidism Awareness and Support Initiative (TASI) with an underlying objective to reach out to victims and patients suffering from Thyroid diseases such as Goitre and offer them hope and solutions.In her welcome address, she explained why it was necessary to sensitize, empower and educate all and sundry on Thyroid Health, Thyroid diseases and it’s related diseases, including risks and consequences, hence the need for the public lecture.

One of her major objectives is to draw the attention of governments at all level, public and private policy makers, Legislators and all relevant stakeholders of Health in Nigeria to the challenges and sufferings of people living with Thyroid diseases.

The well attended lecture had a full hall of knowledge thirsty participants who had begun arriving the venue as early as 9.30 am. Perhaps one of the strength of the lecture was it’s strong assemblage of panelists which include, in no particular order, Dr.(Mrs) Wellington, Dr. Olufemi Fasanmade, Dr. Lasisi Durojaiye, Dr. (Mrs) Maymunah Yusuf-Kadiri, Dr.

Adekunle Megbuwawon and Mrs. Tope Delano, a journalist, mother and Thyroid disease survivor who, in the course of her experience, has become a passionate and strong advocate for better health concerns and people living with Thyroid diseases.She is always willing to openly share her patient story.

One of the Speakers at the lecture, Dr. Lasisi Durojaiye, a renowned Oncologist who also doubles as one of the partners and Facilitators of the Initiative, spoke on the topic – Treatment Options: Fears, benefits and complications arising from Thyroidism. He explained the uses of drugs for the treatment of Thyroid such as Iodine therapy, and surgery. He said drugs for treatment of TD are readily available, especially at registered pharmacies. He stated that Iodine therapy is effective in early signs and symptoms and much cheaper than surgery.

He encouraged the audience to always be knowledgeable about the diseases and know of treatment options including their procedures. He further advised patients to endeavour to talk to their doctors whenever challenges or complications arise.

Consequently, Thyroid disease threatens reproductive health, maternal health, while the stigma and abuses associated with it collectively promote maternal mortality.” Thyroid Awareness and Support Initiative is a non-governmental and not for profit organisation established primarily to create awareness of Thyroid diseases and also to support people affected by Thyroid diseases.