Women more likely to get affected, with increased risk of various side
effects in pregnant women
New Delhi, 07 July 2017: According to a recent report,
about 32% of Indians suffer from various kinds of thyroid disorders including
thyroid nodules, hyperthyroidism, goiter, thyroiditis, and thyroid cancer. The
most prevalent form of thyroid disorders across the country is sub-clinical
hypothyroidism, which is a milder form of hypothyroidism and what is more
alarming is that it is a silent disease. It is often diagnosed by chance.
Subclinical hypothyroidism is defined as serum thyroid stimulating hormone
(TSH) above the upper reference limit in combination with a normal free
thyroxine (fT4).
Thyroid diseases are more
prevalent in women and can cause many problems including weight gain and
hormonal imbalance. The chances of men suffering from thyroid disease are
comparatively lesser.
In the developed countries, the
prevalence of thyroid disorders is about 4% to 5%.
Speaking about this, Padma Shri Awardee Dr K K Aggarwal, National
President Indian Medical Association (IMA) and President Heart Care Foundation
of India (HCFI) and Dr RN Tandon – Honorary Secretary General IMA in a joint
statement, said,
"Hypothyroidism can affect all organ systems. Genetics has a major role in
determining thyroid hormones and TSH concentrations as well as susceptibility
to autoimmune thyroid disease. Those with a family history are likely to be
predisposed to thyroid abnormalities. Therefore, it is imperative for a person
to be aware of their family’s medical history. If left untreated,
hypothyroidism can cause elevated cholesterol levels, an increase in blood
pressure, cardiovascular complications, decreased fertility, and depression. In
pregnant women, this condition can increase the risk of premature birth, low
birth weight, and miscarriage."
Adding further, Dr Aggarwal,
said, "The need of the hour is to reach out and create awareness among
people about the causes, symptoms, treatment, and importance of testing for
thyroid problems. This is particularly significant for women as the incidence
of acquiring this disease is more in them. Pregnant women or those planning to
conceive should get themselves checked to ensure that their thyroid functions
are normal."
Here are some tips for those living with thyroid disorders.
- Eat healthy Hypothyroidism is linked to weight gain. Thus,
a person with this condition can find it difficult to lose weight. Consume
a diet rich in fibre and low in fat to maintain a healthy weight.
- Exercise Although it may be difficult to get moving in
those with a sluggish thyroid, it is a good idea to push yourself to do
some physical activity.
- De-stress Stress is known to exacerbate thyroid
disorders. Do something to reduce those stress levels. It could be
yoga, meditation, dance, or anything.
Thank you for such useful post. Thanks for sharing. Doctoriduniya
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