Suffolk Reporter

Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, representing Medford, introduced a resolution in the Assembly to designate January as Thyroid Disease Awareness Month. This initiative aims to highlight the impact of thyroid disease, which affects over 20 million Americans, many of whom are unaware of their condition. The resolution encourages education on thyroid disease through awareness campaigns, regular medical check-ups, and preventive measures.

DeStefano emphasized the significance of this resolution by stating, “In New York, the incidence rate for late-stage thyroid cancer is 5.7 cases per 100,000. This is higher than the national average of 4.1. Counties such as my own, Suffolk, report even higher rates." He further added that "because 60% of people with Thyroid Disease don’t even know they have a problem, public awareness is critical to minimizing its devastating effects." DeStefano expressed his hope that designating January as Thyroid Awareness Month could prevent New Yorkers from suffering the effects of thyroid disease.

The Assemblyman's efforts aim to increase public knowledge and encourage proactive health measures regarding thyroid conditions.