The Government has stepped up efforts to educate women and the public on thyroid diseases in a bid to improve awareness on their causes, symptoms, prevention and treatment, as part of broader measures to strengthen the fight against non-communicable diseases in the country.
This was said on April 15, 2026 in Parliament in Dodoma by the Deputy Minister for Health, Dr. Florence Samizi, who was speaking on behalf of the Minister for Health, Mohamed Mchengerwa, while responding to a question from Special Seats Member of Parliament, Mariam Anzuruni Mungula, who had sought to know the government’s plans to educate women on thyroid conditions that may affect perimenopause and hormonal health.
Dr. Samizi said thyroid disease is among non-communicable diseases that affect many people, with women being the most affected group. She noted that studies show a higher prevalence among women, indicating that most patients diagnosed with thyroid conditions are female.
She explained that thyroid disorders can be caused by several factors, including autoimmune conditions where the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland, hormonal changes involving estrogen, progesterone and thyroid hormones, iodine deficiency, genetic factors, advanced age particularly above 60 years, as well as stress and unhealthy lifestyle habits.
Dr. Samizi added that the Government is continuing to intensify public education through different communication channels, including radio, television, social media platforms, posters and leaflets. These efforts aim to ensure citizens are well informed about the causes, symptoms, prevention and early detection of thyroid diseases.
She further said the Government is promoting the use of iodized salt nationwide and strengthening nutrition awareness campaigns to encourage balanced diets and the consumption of foods rich in essential nutrients that support good thyroid health.
In addition, she said the Government is improving health services for screening, diagnosis and treatment of thyroid diseases at all levels of healthcare facilities. Health workers are also being trained and their capacity strengthened to ensure early detection and proper management of patients.
Dr. Samizi emphasized that the Government will continue working with stakeholders in the health sector to ensure that education and health services reach all communities. She said the goal is to reduce the impact of thyroid diseases and protect the health of women and the general public across the country.
