Of 3 million patients visiting PGI annually, endocrinology manages 5% of OPD cases
In endocrinology OPDs, of 100 patients, 70 patients have Type 2 diabetes
5 min read
The endocrinology department at PGI began with just two or three faculty members, and now has eight, along with 14 PhD students and 13 DM residents, and the student population has grown to approximately 100.Pointing at the rising number of patients at the Department of Endocrinology at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh, HoD Prof Sanjay Bhadada said with 3 million patients visiting PGI annually, endocrinology manages approximately 5 per cent of the OPD cases, and out of the 60 departments, endocrinology contributes three-four times of every other department.
“We are witnessing a rise in thyroid disorders, and our department is consulting a high percentage of diabetes, osteoporosis, and with 50 per cent of heart cases related to hypertension, cholesterol, and diabetes. We also deal with these cases. On average, our OPD number is 10,000 a month,” said Prof Bhadada, the organising chairman of the 2nd Rastogi-Dash Clinical Case Conference on Thyroid Disorders that began on Saturday.
The event aimed at enhancing the understanding and treatment of thyroid disorders, with leading endocrinologists and healthcare professionals from across the country.
PGI Director Prof Vivek Lal, the Chief Guest, inaugurated the Conference.
Prof GK Rastogi and Prof RJ Dash laid the foundation for the excellence we continue to witness. We are constructing a new centre in Sarangpur to elevate our capabilities. Despite funding challenges, we are actively advocating for our needs to continue our essential work.” Prof Lal said, outlining a vision for future growth.
According to Dr Bhadada, diabetes is being witnessed in a high number of people above 30, and apart from lifestyle, increased awareness and better testing facilities are leading to the diagnosis of both thyroid disorders and diabetes. “Of the 100 patients, 70 have diabetes and as many as 20 per cent with thyroid issues,” he said.
Overweight and obesity are prevalent public health issues and are associated with a range of metabolic abnormalities, including decreased glucose tolerance, reduced insulin sensitivity, and adverse lipid profile, which are risk factors for cardio-metabolic diseases — Type 2 diabetes, hypertension and Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD).
“Abdominal obesity is associated with a significant risk of cardiometabolic complications,” said Dr Ashu Rastogi, Associate Professor, Department of Endocrinology, PGI.
Dr Anil Bhansali, former head of the Department of Endocrinology, PGI, said, “At present, the risk of diabetes is increasing rapidly even in young people, with many diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40. This is unlike Western countries, where diabetes typically manifests after the age of 60. The reasons for this include a genetic predisposition and lifestyle factors like modern-day stress, a sedentary routine, reliance on fast food, and a lack of regular exercise”
“One in every four new diabetes patients is below 40 years of age. In Chandigarh, the prevalence of diabetes is 20.4 per cent, and apart from an unhealthy diet, lack of sleep and inadequate physical activity are also contributing to the high numbers,” Dr Bhansali said.
“One critical factor in controlling diabetes, particularly in younger individuals, is weight management. A healthy diet, regular physical activity, and stress reduction are key to delaying or preventing the onset of diabetes,” he added.
The department began with just two or three faculty members, and now has eight, along with 14 PhD students and 13 DM residents, and the student population has grown to approximately 100.
Prof Bhadada said India’s first DM programme in endocrinology was initiated here in the department, crediting Prof Dash, being the first DM student, for paving the way for future generations and setting high standards in the field.
The department also runs a special clinic for metabolic bone diseases like osteoporosis, with 700 patients already enrolled in the clinic.
“We are now working on a transplant clinic, with patients of transplants and bone disease taken care of under one roof. Iodine deficiencies were common in this region of the Himalayan foothills, a reason for thyroid issues, though with the common salt now supplemented with iodine, it has decreased. Thyroid cancers are also on the rise, and ultrasounds are picking up these diseases more easily. We must look out for swelling in front of the neck with both hypo and hyperthyroid. In hypo, look out for lethargy, weakness, fatigue, sleepiness, and constipation. In hyperthyroid anxiety, tremors are common. A thyroid function test is a simple way to assess the issue,” the doctor said.
The first day of the conference featured an impressive lineup of cases addressing challenging thyroid conditions. The first case presented by Dr Saksham Pandey focused on managing thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO). Following this, Dr Vivek Jha tackled euthyroid Graves’ Disease complications. Dr Soumya Ranjan led significant discussions on Turner syndrome, while Dr Preeti Namjoshi presented innovative plasmapheresis treatments.
The event included diverse case reports exploring thyroid malignancies and rare conditions, featuring esteemed experts and mentorship from notable figures in the field. The day concluded with networking and insights into thyroid pathology, highlighting advancements in diagnosis and treatment.
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