Prevalence and Predictors of Thyroid Dysfunction Among Type 2 Diabetic Patients: A Case-Control Study

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Disorders
• Clinical Research

Background:

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and thyroid disorders are prevalent endocrine conditions.
• Understanding the relationship between T2DM and thyroid dysfunction is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of thyroid disorders in patients with T2DM.
• To identify predictors and risk factors associated with thyroid dysfunction in T2DM patients.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 998 T2DM patients and 343 non-diabetic controls.
• Thyroid function tests (TSH, FT4, FT3) and HbA1c levels were assessed.
• Logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors.

Main Results:

• The overall prevalence of thyroid disorders was 26.7% in T2DM patients, significantly higher than controls (13.7%).
• Subclinical hypothyroidism was the most common thyroid disorder.
• Risk factors for thyroid dysfunction in T2DM included age ≥50 years (OR 3.895), female gender (OR 1.757), goiter (OR 2.904), and HbA1c >7% (OR 2.553).

Conclusions:

• A high prevalence of thyroid disorders exists in T2DM patients.
• Routine screening for thyroid dysfunction in diabetic patients is recommended.
• Managing diabetes effectively may reduce the risk of thyroid dysfunction.