Balancing Body and Mind: Dr. John Gian on Thyroid Health and Preventive Care

Thyroid health is an essential — and often overlooked — part of whole-person care. At NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Vanderbilt, Internal Medicine Attending Physician Dr. John Gian takes a comprehensive approach to managing thyroid conditions. His focus on preventive medicine and community-based care reflects both his clinical philosophy and his decision to join PAGNY.

“What I enjoy most about Internal Medicine is the opportunity to connect with people. Everyone has a mind, a brain, a body, and a soul that is unique to each individual,” Dr. Gian shares. “Internal Medicine allows me — and challenges me — to keep each patient well and in good health.” According to Dr. Gian, thyroid health is a vital part of that equation.

The thyroid, he explains, plays a central role in regulating both physical and mental balance. “If there are not enough thyroid hormones produced, our mind and body slow down. We become tired, lethargic, sleepy, and depressed. Our heart rate slows. On the other hand, if too much thyroid hormone is produced, we are hyper in both mind and body — becoming nervous, jittery, and emotionally overcharged.” With the right medications and guidance from an endocrinologist, these symptoms can be managed, and patients can return to a sense of normalcy. One common misconception Dr. Gian often encounters is that thyroid conditions are permanent. While many are chronic, he emphasizes that they are very treatable and sometimes reversible.

“We may maintain some patients on chronic thyroid supplements, but there are cases that are reversible once the underlying diseases are found and treated.” The most meaningful part of treating thyroid conditions, he says, is seeing the difference it makes in his patients’ lives. “Thyroid medications are readily available and make a big difference. Many of my patients can return to normal activities with school, work, and family. The medications are relatively safe, effective, and stable.”

As someone deeply committed to preventive medicine, Dr. Gian also stresses the critical role of early detection, especially in underserved communities. “If preventive medicine is not available, diseases will progress to more advanced stages, which will be very costly to patients, families, and the communities we serve.” He and his team provide screenings, discuss results with patients, and treat early-stage disease — all as part of a proactive, prevention-first model of care.

Dr. Gian’s commitment to prevention began early in his medical training, from his start at the Sophie Davis Biomedical Education Program through his years at New York Medical College. His decision to join PAGNY was a natural extension of that mission. “I was interested in joining a healthcare system that would provide healthcare services to underserved communities,” he says. “Joining PAGNY has allowed me to pursue my passion and contribute to the healthcare needs of our residents and our communities.”

Dr. Gian’s perspective reminds us that thyroid health isn’t just about hormone levels; it’s about restoring balance to people’s lives and preventing disease before it progresses. As part of your ongoing preventive care, talk to your provider about thyroid screening and how to support long-term wellness.