As part of activities marking International Thyroid Awareness Week 2026, Thyroid Ghana Foundation, in collaboration with the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) and key stakeholders, organised an educational forum on 26 May 2026 under the theme “Thyroid and Nutrition.”
The event brought together healthcare professionals, nutrition experts, patients living with thyroid disorders, partner organisations, media representatives and members of the public to increase awareness of thyroid diseases and highlight the important relationship between nutrition and thyroid health.
The programme set out to improve public understanding of thyroid disorders, promote healthy nutritional practices, encourage early detection and screening, and provide practical information for people living with thyroid conditions.
Opening session
The programme opened with a prayer led by Rev. Joseph Agyaaku Ofosu, Chaplain of UGMC. Participants were then welcomed by Prof. P. F. Ayeh-Kumi, Board Chair of the Thyroid Ghana Foundation, who emphasised the Foundation’s commitment to raising awareness, supporting people living with thyroid disorders, and advocating for timely diagnosis and access to quality care.
Dr. Nana Adwoa Konadu Dsane, Founder of Thyroid Ghana Foundation, outlined the purpose of the gathering and highlighted the growing burden of thyroid diseases in Ghana. She stressed the need for increased public education and the critical role nutrition plays in the prevention and management of thyroid disorders.
A solidarity message was delivered on behalf of the management of the University of Ghana Medical Centre, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to raising thyroid awareness and improving patient outcomes through multidisciplinary care.
Expert presentations
The role of dietitians in preventing and managing thyroid disorders
The first presentation was delivered by Rev. Prince Baidoo, President of the Ghana Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (GAND). He explained that thyroid disorders are among the most common endocrine conditions worldwide, affecting approximately 5–10% of the global population. In Africa, thyroid diseases remain a significant public health concern because of factors such as inadequate iodine intake and a high number of undiagnosed cases. In Ghana, the prevalence of thyroid disorders is estimated at approximately 2–4%.
The presentation highlighted the unique role of dietitians in:
- Promoting healthy dietary practices and adequate iodine intake.
- Preventing nutritional deficiencies associated with thyroid disorders.
- Providing individualised nutrition counselling.
- Supporting healthy weight management.
- Educating patients on lifestyle modifications that improve treatment outcomes.
- Facilitating long-term behavioural change through evidence-based nutrition interventions.
Thyroid and nutrition: linking food to hormone health
Emelia Dery Gbogr, Head of Dietetics at UGMC, explored the relationship between food, nutrient intake and thyroid hormone production. Key areas discussed included:
- The importance of iodine in thyroid hormone synthesis.
- The role of protein and tyrosine in maintaining thyroid function.
- Appropriate consumption of goitrogen-containing foods.
- The contribution of gut health to immune function and hormonal balance.
- Practical dietary recommendations for people living with thyroid disorders.
Participants were encouraged to adopt balanced diets rich in essential nutrients while seeking professional guidance before making significant dietary changes.
Management of thyroid disorders
Dr. Michael Damah, Head of the Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Department at UGMC, presented the treatment options available for thyroid disorders and the common conditions encountered in clinical practice, including:
- Medical treatment and monitoring.
- Surgical interventions where indicated.
- Lifestyle and dietary modifications.
- Long-term follow-up and multidisciplinary care.
Dr. Damah emphasised the importance of early diagnosis and adherence to treatment plans to improve quality of life and reduce complications associated with thyroid disorders.
Patient testimonies
One of the most impactful segments of the programme was the patient testimony session. Individuals living with thyroid disorders shared their personal experiences, including challenges related to delayed diagnosis, the emotional and psychological effects of the condition, their treatment journeys and recovery.
Their stories highlighted the real-life impact of thyroid diseases on individuals and families, and demonstrated the importance of awareness, support systems and access to quality healthcare. The testimonies generated meaningful discussion and inspired participants to prioritise their thyroid health and seek medical attention when symptoms arise.
Expert panel discussion
An interactive panel discussion followed, featuring Dr. Michael Damah, Emelia Dery Gbogr, RD Elorm and other health professionals. Participants asked questions and received practical guidance on:
- Nutrition and thyroid health.
- Weight management.
- Medication adherence.
- Lifestyle modifications.
- Screening and early detection.
- Myths and misconceptions surrounding thyroid disorders.
The discussion enhanced participants’ understanding of thyroid disease management and reinforced the value of multidisciplinary care.
Know Your Thyroid Health: screening, symptoms and nutrition
A dedicated education segment, led by representatives of the UGMC Dietetics Department and RD Sarah Salomey Kailey Okine, focused on the common signs and symptoms of thyroid disorders, the importance of routine screening and early detection, practical nutrition strategies for maintaining thyroid health, and healthy food choices that support thyroid function.
Participants also benefited from practical demonstrations and educational materials designed to encourage healthy lifestyle practices.
Partner support and goodwill messages
A goodwill message was delivered by representatives of MDS-Lancet Laboratories, a long-standing partner of Thyroid Ghana Foundation. The message reaffirmed the importance of partnerships in advancing thyroid awareness, promoting screening services, and improving access to diagnostic and laboratory support for patients.
A call to action
In her closing presentation, Dr. Nana Adwoa Konadu Dsane summarised the key lessons from the programme and called on participants to become ambassadors for thyroid awareness within their communities. She encouraged the public to:
- Seek medical attention when symptoms arise.
- Prioritise routine health screening.
- Adopt healthy dietary habits.
- Support individuals living with thyroid disorders.
- Participate in awareness and advocacy initiatives.
She further highlighted the need for sustained public education, research and policy support to improve thyroid health outcomes in Ghana.
Conclusion
International Thyroid Awareness Week 2026 successfully increased awareness of thyroid disorders and strengthened public understanding of the important role nutrition plays in thyroid health. Through expert presentations, patient testimonies, panel discussions and educational demonstrations, participants gained practical knowledge that can contribute to the prevention, early detection and effective management of thyroid conditions.
The event reinforced Thyroid Ghana Foundation’s commitment to improving awareness, supporting patients, promoting early diagnosis, and advocating for better thyroid healthcare services in Ghana.
The Foundation expresses its sincere appreciation to the University of Ghana Medical Centre, the Ghana Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, MDS-Lancet Laboratories, healthcare professionals, volunteers, partners, media representatives and all the participants whose contributions made the programme a success.