Frequency of Subclinical Hypothyroidism in Old-age Population

This study was conducted to determine the frequency of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) in the old age population (>60 years). A cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2019 to January 2020 at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, Pakistan. Healthy subjects (having no active complaint) of either sex aged 60-80 years were included. Those already on thyroid replacement, preexisting thyroid diseases, prior radiation therapy, or having chronic kidney disease were excluded. A total of 133 participants, 79 males and 54 females, were selected with a mean age of 69.5 ± 6.4 years. There were 29 diabetics, 30 hypertensives, and 10 smokers. A total of 17 (12.8%) were found to have SCH. On stratification, gender, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension had a significant association with the presence of SCH. SCH is a modifiable risk factor, more in females, diabetics, hypertensives, and the old age population. These results highlight the need for screening for SCH in primary care settings, especially in old age. Key Words: Subclinical hypothyroidism, Old age, Gender, Diabetes, Hypertension.