The prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in Jordan: a national population-based survey

The objectives of this study are to assess the prevalence of clinical and subclinical hypo- and hyperthyroidism and their associated factors among Jordanian adults.

In a cross-sectional population-based survey, a representative sample that included 3753 Jordanian adults was selected from the 12 governorates that represent the three regions of the country, in the year 2017. Sociodemographic and clinical data were obtained and blood samples were collected from all participants. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free tri-iodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb) and thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) were measured to evaluate the thyroid function.

The overall prevalence of thyroid dysfunction was 11.9%. Around 76% of patients with thyroid dysfunction were previously undiagnosed. The prevalence of hypothyroidism and subclinical hypothyroidism was 3.1 and 5.3%, respectively. The prevalence of hyperthyroidism and subclinical hyperthyroidism was 1.0 and 2.5%, respectively. Female preponderance which was mainly related to hypothyroid disorders was evident. The prevalence of positive TPOAb and TgAb in the study population was 14.9 and 15.3%, respectively. The prevalence of detectable TPOAb and TgAb in the euthyroid participants was10.3 and 11.9%, respectively. Logistic regression analysis revealed that female sex, age ≥ 50 years and the presence of TgAb and TPOAb were strongly associated with hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism was significantly associated with the presence of TPOAb and age ≥ 50 years.

The prevalence of unrecognized thyroid dysfunction is high among Jordanians. A public health policy of screening high risk groups particularly those ≥50 years of age is recommended.