Thyroid Dysfunction Ranks Ninth Among Top 10 Common Ailments Affecting Indians

About 200 million people suffer from thyroid disorders worldwide, of whom 42 million are Indians. A recent survey conducted by the Indian Thyroid Society depicts awareness for the disease ranked ninth as compared to other common ailments such as asthma, cholesterol problem, depression, diabetes, insomnia and heart problem. A new study conducted by SRL Diagnostics has revealed that men in the age group of 31-45 years are at greater risk of thyroid dysfunction.

The study said that currently 22.68% of Indians already are afflicted by thyroid dysfunction, and suffer from health problems including heart diseases and infertility. The survey conducted over a period of three years 2012-14 said, "In India, East zone has highest percentage of thyroid abnormality with 25.2% while northern and western zones have 23.9% and 21.1%. Among the four zones, southern India showed the lowest percentage of abnormality at 19.4%."

The study highlighted that hypothyroidism, an iodine deficient disorders (IDDs), is highly prevalent in India with one out of 10 people in the country being diagnosed with this condition. B.R. Das, president of Research and Innovation at SRL Diagnostics, said, "There is a significant need for reaching out and making people aware of the causes, symptoms, treatment and importance of testing for thyroid problems. Problems associated with abnormal production of thyroid hormones continue to grow significantly and awareness about the disease in the country among men remains shockingly low."

The study results also suggest the need for an active screening of endocrine function among patients at greater risk along with regular monitoring of thyroid status and dose adjustments to provide effective therapy.

Source: IANS