SHK is an activity to sort out babies who are likely to suffer from Congenital Hypothyroidism from healthy babies.Congenital hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland is underdeveloped or not functioning properly and is present in newborns.
What is the Thyroid Gland?
A gland located in the front of the neck that functions to produce thyroid hormones.
Function of Thyroid Hormone
To aid the body’s metabolism, growth, and development of the central nervous system. If the thyroid gland is unable to produce thyroid hormones properly, hypothyroidism will occur.
What are the impacts if it is not done?
- For Children:
If not detected and treated promptly, the baby will experience disabilities that will be very detrimental to their life. The child will experience overall physical growth disorders and mental retardation. - For Families:
Families who have children with Congenital Hypothyroidism will be impacted in the following ways:- The economy
will be burdened because they have to get special education, care and supervision. - Psychosocial
Families are vulnerable to the social environment due to low self-esteem and become a stigma in the family and society. - Family productivity decreases due to having to care for a child with Congenital Hypothyroidism
- The economy
When and where is it done?
- Congenital hypothyroidism screening is performed on newborns aged 48 to 72 hours. In certain circumstances, it can be performed at more than 24 hours and a maximum of less than 14 days.
- Performed in a Health Care Facility by trained health workers
How is the screening carried out?
- Screening is done by taking a blood sample from the baby’s heel.
- The blood sample is sent to a laboratory to be tested for thyroid hormone levels.
