Medical societies call for stronger health policy in endocrinology

Several endocrinology and metabolism-related medical societies on Tuesday called for stronger health policies in these areas, keeping in mind that hormones and the endocrine system influence the risk of obesity, diabetes and cancer.

“They are also associated with more than 400 rare diseases and it is important to ensure their timely diagnosis and early treatment,” they remind in a statement published by the Portuguese Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism (SPEDM).

Citing other associated medical societies of the European Society of Endocrinology, the note highlights that deregulation of the endocrine system, which consists of several glands that produce various hormones, “has also contributed to the emergence of more than 400 rare diseases affecting approximately 30 million Europeans.” .

“These diseases are diagnosed late and are often chronic and/or fatal,” they state.

Medical societies are again calling for increased awareness of the “vital role” of hormones in preventing rare and chronic diseases, and the importance of putting endocrine health on the European agenda.

For SPEDM, there is an urgent need to generate knowledge and skills at European level that stimulate innovation and research, enabling “rapid diagnosis of these diseases, access to innovative treatments and ensure equity in the use of health resources.”

“Timely diagnosis can truly change lives,” says SPEDM, adding: “This must be a collaborative effort, and for the same reason, we are reinforcing the call for support and integration of these prevention, awareness and treatment measures into national health systems.” health throughout Europe.”

The appeal was launched as part of European Hormone Day, which takes place on Wednesday.

This year the campaign also published a set of 10 recommendations for good hormonal health, including avoiding avoidable hormonal deficiencies, such as increasing consumption of salmon and sardines, which ensure a greater supply of vitamin D, or consuming yoghurt or almonds. , which contain calcium, which helps improve bone health.

Experts also emphasize the importance of a healthy lifestyle, reducing exposure to substances such as endocrine disruptors (such as those found in plastics), and recognizing early signs and symptoms of endocrine diseases such as excessive thirst, unintended weight gain. gain or loss and sensitivity to cold, among others.