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Thyroid function studies in normal pregnant Tanzanian women
E A Kabyemela1, L M Swinkels, M M Chuwa
1Department of Clinical Chemistry, Muhimbili University College of Health Sciences, University of Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania.
The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) pose risks in Tanzania. This study found pregnant women in non-deficient areas show normal thyroid function despite pregnancy-related biochemical changes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) cause significant health issues, including cretinism and psychoneurologic deficits, particularly affecting fetal development.
- Tanzania faces a high risk, with 40% of the population potentially affected by IDD, and an estimated 600,000 cretins/cretinoids.
- The impact of iodine deficiency on human reproduction in Tanzania remains understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a baseline for future research on iodine deficiency and its reproductive effects in Tanzania.
- To assess thyroid function biochemical parameters in pregnant and non-pregnant women in Tanzania.
Main Methods:
- Assayed serum thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3), thyrotropin (TSH), and free thyroxine (FT4).
- Studied 93 clinically euthyroid pregnant women and 34 non-pregnant women as controls.
- Focused on women residing in areas without iodine deficiency.
Main Results:
- Pregnancy was associated with increased total T3 and T4 levels, decreased FT4, and elevated TSH.
- Nearly all pregnant subjects (99%) demonstrated biochemical euthyroidism, confirmed by FT4 and basal TSH.
- Thyroid function changes in pregnant Tanzanian women mirrored those observed globally.
Conclusions:
- Pregnant women in iodine-sufficient Tanzanian areas exhibit thyroid function biochemical changes similar to those in other regions.
- The study confirms biochemical euthyroidism in pregnant women despite observed parameter shifts.
- Provides essential baseline data for understanding iodine's role in Tanzanian reproductive health.