Advanced maternal age in Indian children with thyroid dysgenesis

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Genetics
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• Thyroid dysgenesis (TD) is a congenital condition affecting thyroid development.
• Understanding risk factors for TD is crucial for early diagnosis and intervention.
• Previous research has explored various genetic and environmental factors, but the role of maternal age requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between gender and maternal age with thyroid dysgenesis (TD) in a pediatric cohort.
• To identify potential demographic risk factors contributing to the incidence of TD.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of medical records was conducted for 80 children diagnosed with TD.
• Data on patient gender and maternal age at the time of birth were collected.
• Statistical analysis, including comparison of means and odds ratios, was performed against a reference group.

Main Results:

• No significant association was found between gender and the occurrence of TD (1:1 boy-to-girl ratio).
• Mothers of children with TD had a significantly higher mean age (25.87 ± 4.17 years) compared to a reference group (23.87 ± 3.34 years).
• Mothers older than 30 years had a 3.23 times higher odds of having a child with TD (p=0.0003).

Conclusions:

• Advanced maternal age is a significant risk factor associated with thyroid dysgenesis in children.
• These findings suggest that maternal age should be considered in the assessment and management of TD.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the biological mechanisms linking advanced maternal age and TD.