World Thyroid Day is observed annually on May 25th to raise awareness about thyroid diseases, promote early diagnosis, and encourage proactive management of thyroid health. Initiated in 2008 by the European Thyroid Association, and supported globally by organizations like the American Thyroid Association, this day brings much-needed attention to the millions living with thyroid disorders. The theme for World Thyroid Day 2025—“Thyroid Disease and Artificial Intelligence”—highlights the growing role of AI in transforming the landscape of thyroid care through early detection, personalized treatment plans, and improved patient outcomes.
On this occasion, MedBound Times spoke with Dr. Varsha Kachroo, Consultant Endocrinologist at Yatharth Superspeciality Hospital and a National Board–certified expert in endocrinology. With an MBBS and MD from GMC Jammu and a DrNB in Endocrinology from Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, Delhi, Dr. Kachroo brings deep clinical insight and a patient-centered approach. In conversation with Dr. Shreya Vohra of MedBound Times she discusses the critical role of the thyroid gland, common yet overlooked disorders, early warning signs, and the profound effects of hormonal imbalance on fertility and mental health.
Dr. Shreya Vohra: Can you introduce yourself to our readers?
Dr. Varsha Kachroo: Hello, I’m Dr. Varsha Kachroo, Consultant Endocrinologist at Yatharth Superspeciality Hospital. I hold an MBBS and MD in General Medicine from GMC Jammu and a DrNB in Endocrinology from Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, Delhi. With over 8 years of clinical experience, I specialize in managing thyroid disorders, diabetes, obesity, metabolic issues, bone health, and pediatric endocrinology.
Dr. Shreya Vohra: Can you describe your career path and how you became interested in endocrinology?
Dr. Varsha Kachroo: I completed my MBBS and MD in Medicine from GMC Jammu. Following that, I pursued a DrNB in Endocrinology at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals in Delhi. Endocrinology is a fascinating field that delves into the complexities of hormones. It ranges from simple concepts to the intricate interactions between different hormones, which I find particularly intriguing.
Dr. Shreya Vohra: What is the thyroid gland, and why is it so important for our body?
Dr. Varsha Kachroo: The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ located in the neck, in front of the windpipe. It plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development, as well as various other functions such as heart rate, menstrual cycle, digestion, mood, and behavior.
Dr. Shreya Vohra: What are the most common thyroid disorders you see in your practice?
Dr. Varsha Kachroo: Most commonly, I see hypothyroidism followed by hyperthyroidism and thyroiditis.
Dr. Shreya Vohra: Why are thyroid disorders often missed or misdiagnosed?
Dr. Varsha Kachroo: Thyroid disorders are often missed due to non-specificity of the symptoms, gradual onset and variable presentations in different individuals. Also, it can be because of the lack of knowledge and awareness regarding symptoms and signs of thyroid disorders.
Dr. Shreya Vohra: How can someone know if they might have a thyroid problem? What are the warning signs?
Dr. Varsha Kachroo: For Hypothyroidism: Fatigue, weight gain, cold sensitivity, dry skin or hair, slowed heart rate, difficulty in concentration, poor memory, constipation, depression, and changes in menstrual cycles.
For Hyperthyroidism: Weight loss with intact appetite, tremors, increased heartbeat or palpitations, heat intolerance, anxiety or irritability, and changes in menstrual cycles, diarrhea.
Dr. Shreya Vohra: Do only women get thyroid problems? Can your thyroid affect fertility or periods?
Dr. Varsha Kachroo: Although thyroid problems are more commonly found in women than in men, it is important to note that men can also experience thyroid disorders. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can affect men.
Thyroid disorders can significantly impact fertility in both men and women. In women, these disorders can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, affect ovulation, decrease endometrial receptivity, and have negative effects on the placenta. In men, thyroid issues can also affect sperm quality, count, and motility.
Dr. Shreya Vohra: Can thyroid disorders affect mental health or mood? How are they connected?
Dr. Varsha Kachroo: Yes, thyroid disorders significantly affect mental health and mood, causing difficulty in focusing, memory problems, slowed thinking, anxiety, depression and mood swings. This happens because thyroid hormones play an important role in metabolic activities in the brain and also neurotransmitter activity.
Dr. Shreya Vohra: Who should get their thyroid checked, and how often?
Dr. Varsha Kachroo: Those with a family history of thyroid disorders, those with a history of autoimmune diseases like Type 1 diabetes and celiac disease, in pregnancy, those receiving specific cancer (immunotherapies) or radiation exposure to the neck, or if you have clinical features suggestive of thyroid disorders. The frequency of thyroid function tests depends upon the underlying conditions. Specifically, if a patient is already on thyroid-related medications, it should be repeated every 6 weeks to 8 weeks initially, once the dose is fixed and can be done in 6 to 12 months.
Dr. Shreya Vohra: What advances in thyroid treatment or diagnosis are you excited about?
Dr. Varsha Kachroo: Molecular biomarkers, targeted therapies and personalised medicine (mostly for thyroid cancer patients).
Dr. Shreya Vohra: What’s the most misunderstood aspect of thyroid health in your opinion?
Dr. Varsha Kachroo: Since there are no obvious signs or symptoms when a patient misses one dose or even a week of treatment, they may feel that the medication is not crucial for their health and can be easily discontinued. This perception is often exacerbated by misinformation spread by influencers and unqualified individuals.
Dr. Shreya Vohra: Thyroid meds for life — fact or fear?
Dr. Varsha Kachroo: Yes, mostly it can be for a lifetime. But, also we must not consider it as a source of fear as treatment is usually safe and effective. Our thyroid health affects our overall health and well-being. So, it should never be a source of fear or non-compliance.
Dr. Shreya Vohra: Can yoga or lifestyle changes actually help your thyroid?
Dr. Varsha Kachroo: These can help with the overall well-being of the body and may be in tiding over the features of hypothyroidism. But if you are frankly hypothyroid or hyperthyroid, you will have to start medicines prescribed by your endocrinologist.
Dr. Shreya Vohra: What is the significance of World Thyroid Day?
Dr. Varsha Kachroo: It is to raise awareness about thyroid health, its impact on overall well being, symptoms of various thyroid disorders and how well they can be managed.
Dr. Shreya Vohra: What message would you like to give the public today regarding thyroid health?
Dr. Varsha Kachroo: Don’t consider thyroid health an unimportant aspect of your body. It is crucially important to maintain just like your other vital organs.
Dr. Shreya Vohra: Any tips for someone living with thyroid disease to improve their quality of life?
Dr. Varsha Kachroo: Don’t consider it as an unnecessary evil that your doctor has bestowed upon you! It is an important aspect of your health and obviously should be supplemented with routine exercise, dietary management, and stress management to lead an overall better life.
MedBound Times expresses sincere gratitude to Dr. Varsha Kachroo for sharing her valuable insights on our platform. We appreciate her time to educate and inspire our readers.