What Is the Thyroid

What Is the Thyroid and Why Should We Care?

Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of your neck. It is relatively tiny, but it plays a major role in regulating your metabolism, energy levels, heart rate, and even mood by producing essential hormones (thyroxine/T4 and triiodothyronine/T3).

There are two main types of thyroid conditions:

• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid): Your body isn’t producing enough thyroid hormones.
  
• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid): Your body is producing too much.
  

Other conditions include goiter (thyroid swelling), thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer.

According to the American Thyroid Association, more than 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease—and up to 60% are unaware of their condition. While data specific to the Latinx population is limited, studies have shown that Hispanic individuals are less likely to be diagnosed or receive timely treatment for thyroid disorders.

Cultural and language barriers, limited access to specialists, and underrepresentation in research contribute to delayed care. That’s why raising awareness is so important, especially for our communities.