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Thyroid Dysfunction: Are You at Risk?
Published: Jan 04, 2024
Thyroid disorders affect millions worldwide, but some people are at higher risk than others. Knowing your risk factors can help with early detection and management of thyroid problems.
Gender and Age: Key Risk Factors
Women are significantly more likely to develop thyroid disorders than men, with some estimates suggesting they're 5-8 times more at risk. Age also plays a role, particularly for hypothyroidism. The risk increases with age, especially after 60. However, thyroid problems can occur at any age, including in children and young adults.
Family History and Autoimmune Conditions
Having a family history of thyroid disorders increases your risk. This is particularly true for autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease. Additionally, having other autoimmune disorders, such as type 1 diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, increases your risk of developing autoimmune thyroid disease.
Environmental and Lifestyle Factors
Certain environmental factors can affect thyroid function. Iodine deficiency or excess can lead to thyroid problems, though this is less common in countries with iodized salt. Exposure to radiation, particularly to the head and neck area, can increase the risk of thyroid disorders. Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of thyroid eye disease in people with Graves' disease.
Pregnancy and Postpartum Period
Pregnancy puts extra demands on the thyroid gland and can unmask underlying thyroid dysfunction. Some women also develop postpartum thyroiditis, a temporary form of thyroid dysfunction that occurs in the first year after giving birth. While it often resolves on its own, it can lead to permanent thyroid problems in some cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Stress alone doesn't cause thyroid disease, but may trigger symptoms.
Obesity is associated with small changes in thyroid function.
Yes, some medications can interfere with thyroid function.
Some factors, like radiation exposure, increase thyroid cancer risk.
Extreme iodine intake (high or low) can affect risk.
Knowledge is Power
Understanding your risk factors doesn't mean you'll develop thyroid problems, but it can help you stay vigilant about your thyroid health.
References
- Vanderpump MP. The epidemiology of thyroid disease. Br Med Bull 2011; 99:39.
- Brent GA. Environmental exposures and autoimmune thyroid disease. Thyroid 2010; 20:755.
- Stagnaro-Green A. Approach to the patient with postpartum thyroiditis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2012; 97:334.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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