Risk Factors of Congenital Hypothyroidism in Israel

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Endocrinology
• Public Health

Background:

• Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is a leading preventable cause of intellectual disability and growth delay in children.
• Identifying associated prenatal and environmental factors is crucial for early intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of permanent CH and transient congenital hypothyroidism (TCH) in Israel.
• To identify demographic, gestational, and environmental risk factors associated with CH and TCH in the Israeli population.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of the Israeli national newborn screening program database (2011-2015).
• Statistical analysis using Chi-square and logistic regression to assess associations between factors and CH/TCH.
• Inclusion of over 889,000 live births in the study cohort.

Main Results:

• Prevalence rates: 9.76 per 10,000 live births for CH and 3.35 per 10,000 live births for TCH.
• CH associated with female sex, gestational ages <38 or >39 weeks, low birth weight (<3000g), and winter birth.
• TCH risk decreased in Arab neonates and those from high socioeconomic areas; increased risk associated with preterm birth, low birth weight, and winter birth.

Conclusions:

• Demographic, gestational, and geographical factors significantly influence the development of CH and TCH in Israel.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific pathogenesis of CH and TCH within the Israeli context.