THE ROLE OF THYROID HORMONES IN CHILD DEVELOPMENT

Thyroid hormones, specifically thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), play critical roles in the development and growth of children, impacting various biological processes such as brain development, metabolic regulation, bone growth, and thermoregulation. These hormones, produced by the thyroid gland, regulate essential functions that contribute to the normal development of the central nervous system (CNS), skeletal system, and overall body metabolism. Disruptions in thyroid hormone production can lead to developmental delays and other health problems in children. This paper reviews the importance of thyroid hormones in child development, focusing on their effects on physical, cognitive, and metabolic growth, and the consequences of thyroid hormone imbalances.