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Thyroid dysfunction in eastern Nepal
1Department of Biochemistry, BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, Nepal. nirmalbaral@yahoo.com
Summary
Iodine deficiency in Nepal causes significant thyroid dysfunction, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, particularly in adults aged 21-40. Further research is needed to understand the full community impact.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Nepal faces endemic iodine deficiency, leading to a high prevalence of goiter and thyroid dysfunction.
- Thyroid dysfunction represents a significant public health challenge within the Nepalese population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction among hill and terai castes in eastern Nepal.
- To analyze the distribution of thyroid dysfunction in relation to age, sex, and caste.
Main Methods:
- A hospital-based study was conducted over one year at the BPKIHS thyroid clinic in Dharan.
- A total of 599 patients attending the clinic were analyzed for thyroid dysfunction.
Main Results:
- Overall prevalence: 13.68% hyperthyroidism and 17.19% hypothyroidism.
- Thyroid dysfunction was most common in the 21-40 year age group.
- Hypothyroidism prevalence was slightly higher in terai castes (17.66%) than hill castes (15.17%). Among goitrous subjects (n=157), 58.59% were euthyroid and 27.38% had hyperthyroidism.
Conclusions:
- Thyroid dysfunction is prevalent in patients attending a tertiary care center in eastern Nepal.
- Hospital-based data may not reflect general population prevalence; extensive field studies are required.
- Targeted public health interventions may be necessary, especially considering caste-based differences.