Thyroid dysfunction and metabolic syndrome: age- and sex-related associations in hospitalized patients

Thyroid hormones exert pleiotropic effects on lipid and glucose metabolism, blood pressure regulation, and energy expenditure. Thyroid dysfunction is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The association between thyroid pathology and the components of metabolic syndrome (MetS) has emerged as a significant clinical focus, as both conditions contribute to increased morbidity and mortality. Studies indicate that patients with overt and subclinical hypothyroidism have a higher risk of developing MetS. Even in euthyroid individuals, TSH levels in the upper normal range (>2.5 mIU/L) are significantly associated with increased MetS prevalence.