World Thyroid Day 2026

The Department of General Medicine, Khaja Bandanawaz Teaching and General Hospital, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Khaja Bandanawaz University, Kalaburagi, successfully organized a Free Thyroid Screening Camp on 25th May 2026 in Medicine OPD-2 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM on the occasion of World Thyroid Day 2026.

The programme was conducted with the primary objective of creating awareness regarding thyroid disorders, promoting early detection, facilitating timely diagnosis, and ensuring appropriate treatment and follow-up for individuals suffering from thyroid-related illnesses. Thyroid disorders are among the most common endocrine disorders affecting people across all age groups, particularly women, and often remain undiagnosed because of their nonspecific symptoms. Recognizing the growing burden of thyroid diseases and the importance of early intervention, the Departmentof General Medicine undertook this community-oriented initiative to improve public awareness and accessibility to healthcare services.

The Department expresses its profound gratitude to His Excellency Janab Syed Mohammad Ali Al Hussaini, Chancellor, Khaja Bandanawaz University, whose visionary leadership, unwavering support, and commitment to community welfare have enabled thedevelopment of modern healthcare infrastructure and patient-centered services at Khaja Bandanawaz Teaching and General Hospital. Due to his continuous encouragement and guidance, the hospital and the Department of General Medicine are equipped with the necessary facilities, diagnostic services, trained healthcare professionals, and organizational resources required to conduct large-scale public health programmes such as the Free Thyroid Screening Camp. The Department also conveys its sincere appreciation to Dr. Syed Mustafa Al Hussaini, Director, Khaja Bandanawaz University, for his constant support and encouragement. Heartfelt thanks are extended to the Hon'ble Vice Chancellor, Pro Vice Chancellor, Registrar, Dean of Faculty of Medical Sciences, Medical Superintendent, and the University administration for their valuable guidance and administrative assistance in making the programme a success.

Significance of World Thyroid Day 2026

World Thyroid Day is observed globally every year on 25th May to increase awareness regarding thyroid disorders and their impact on public health. The observance encourages early diagnosis, timely treatment, and patient education while highlighting advances in thyroid disease management.

The theme of World Thyroid Day 2026, “Thyroid Disease and Artificial Intelligence,” emphasizes the transformative role of modern technologies and artificial intelligence in improving thyroid healthcare.

Rationale for Conducting the Screening Camp

As the first point of contact for most patients, the Department of General Medicine frequently encounters individuals presenting with symptoms suggestive of thyroid dysfunction. Symptoms such as unexplained weight gain or weight loss, fatigue, generalized weakness, menstrual irregularities, swelling in the neck, mood disturbances, hair loss, intolerance to heat or cold, and cardiovascular manifestations often go unrecognized by patients.

Many individuals remain unaware of these symptoms or seek medical attention only after complications develop. Therefore, the Department of General Medicine considered it essential to organize a dedicated screening programme to identify undiagnosed cases, educate the public, and facilitate early intervention. The camp also aimed to reduce the burden of preventable complications associated with untreated thyroid disorders.

The Free Thyroid Screening Camp commenced at 9:00 AM with registration of beneficiaries. Members of the Department of General Medicine, including faculty members, postgraduate residents, interns, nursing staff, and supporting staff, actively participated in the organization and execution of the programme.

The screening services included, detailed clinical evaluation and history taking. Assessment of symptoms suggestive of thyroid dysfunction.

Free Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) testing for eligible beneficiaries, Specialist consultation by physicians from the Department of General Medicine, Counseling regarding thyroid disorders and available treatment options, Identification of patients requiring further investigations and specialist care.

The camp was visited by Dr. P. S. Shankar, Professor Emeritus and Senior CEO, who appreciated the initiative and encouraged the healthcare team for their efforts in promoting thyroid health awareness. The programme was conducted under the supervision of Dr. Mohammed Abdul Waheed, Professor and Head of the Department of General Medicine, who actively interacted with the participants and oversaw the smooth functioning of all camp activities.

More than 200 beneficiaries attended the camp and availed the free screening and consultation services. The programme witnessed participation not only from residents of Kalaburagi city but also from nearby villages and surrounding rural areas.

Faculty members, senior residents, postgraduate residents, and interns actively participated in the screening programme. They provided clinical examinations, specialist consultations, health education, and awareness regarding thyroid disorders. Vital parameters of the beneficiaries were recorded, and eligible participants underwent screening for thyroid dysfunction.

Health Education and Public Awareness Activities

An important component of the camp was patient education and public awareness. Throughout the programme, healthcare professionals educated patients and attendants regarding:

Function of the thyroid gland, Common thyroid disorders including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goitre, and thyroid nodules, Early warning symptoms and signs of thyroid dysfunction, Importance of regular medical check-ups and thyroid function testing, Lifestyle modifications that support thyroid health, Medication adherence and regular follow-up, Potential complications of untreated thyroid disease, Significance of the World Thyroid Day 2026 theme and the emerging role of Artificial Intelligence in healthcare.

Educational interactions helped participants understand that early recognition and treatment of thyroid disorders can significantly improve quality of life and prevent long-term complications.

Patients with abnormal findings or significant symptoms were counselled regarding the need for further evaluation and treatment.

Importantly, the Department ensured continuity of care by conducting follow-up of screened patients on the subsequent day. Necessary treatment was initiated wherever indicated, and patients requiring additional investigations or specialist consultation were appropriately advised and referred. This follow-up approach ensured that screening translated into meaningful clinical care and improved patient outcomes.

The event received extensive publicity through print media, local newspapers, and social media platforms. Awareness posters were circulated prior to the event, and multiple newspaper publications highlighted the objectives and benefits of the screening camp. The media coverage contributed significantly to public participation and enhanced community awareness regarding thyroid health.

The Department of General Medicine sincerely acknowledges the dedicated efforts of faculty members, postgraduate residents, interns, nursing staff, laboratory personnel, administrative staff, and support staff whose teamwork and commitment ensured the smooth conduct of the programme. Their coordinated efforts facilitated efficient registration, screening, laboratory testing, consultation, patient education, counseling, and follow-up services.

The Free Thyroid Screening Camp organized on the occasion of World Thyroid Day 2026 was a highly successful public health initiative that effectively combined screening, awareness generation, patient education, consultation, and follow-up care. The programme significantly contributed to the early detection of thyroid disorders and enhanced community understanding of thyroid health.

The enthusiastic response from the public reflects the growing need for such preventive healthcare programmes. By providing accessible screening services and comprehensive health education, the Department of General Medicine reaffirmed its commitment to community healthcare, preventive medicine, and patient welfare.

The Department looks forward to organizing many more such awareness and screening programmes in the future, thereby strengthening its mission of delivering quality healthcare and promoting healthier communities across Kalaburagi district and surrounding regions.