The data highlights a gender disparity - with uncommon thyroid values observed more frequently in women
One in three thyroid tests in Delhi–NCR shows abnormal results – which indicate conditions that lead to an imbalance of the hormone crucial for overall health and well–being. A detailed analysis of the tests, based on a sample size of 35,000 tests conducted by Mahajan Imaging and Labs over the past six months, also highlights a gender disparity - with uncommon values observed more frequently in women.
According to the study, the male-to-female ratio stands at 1:2, with 75 per cent of the atypical results coming from women. Young adults, particularly those in the age group of 22-40 years, are especially susceptible to thyroid abnormalities, likely due to lifestyle factors such as stress, poor diet, and lack of physical activity.
“Our data shows that a significant number of young adults are experiencing abnormal thyroid function, yet many are not taking the necessary steps to address it. We encourage everyone to be proactive about their thyroid health, particularly if they have symptoms or a history of thyroid issues," said Dr. Shelly Mittal Mahajan, Lab Director and Clinical Lead at Mahajan Imaging Labs.
What are thyroid abnormalities?
According to experts, the thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that produces hormones that regulate many of the body's functions including metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and even blood pressure.
However, if there are fewer or too much of hormones produced due to malfunction, it can cause various health issues. Thyroid abnormalities include a number of conditions that affect the gland like:
Hypothyroidism
Also known as an underactive thyroid, it occurs when the gland stops producing enough thyroid hormone, causing recurrent fatigue, weight gain, constipation, muscle weakness and pain, slower heart rate, sensitivity to colds, and even depression.
Hyperthyroidism
Also known as an overactive thyroid, this condition occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. It causes weight loss, faster heart rate, sleeplessness, heat sensitivity, clammy or sweaty skin, anxiety and nervousness, and irregular menstrual cycles or lack of periods
Goiter
It causes an enlargement of the thyroid gland
Hashimoto's thyroiditis
It is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of the thyroid gland
Why are women more prone to thyroid abnormalities?
Women are more likely to develop thyroid abnormalities than men. According to experts, a few reasons behind it include:
- The autoimmune response of women is stronger than men – which leads to diseases like Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease.
- In women, the level of hormone fluctuations is more due to menstrual cycle and menopause. According to experts, thyroid disorders increase the chances of early menopause (in your early 40s or earlier).
- Thyroid function in women also changes during pregnancy – leading to complications like low birth weight, miscarriage, and premature birth.
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