FROM HORMONE TESTS TO GENOMICS: THE RAPID EVOLUTION OF THYROID RESEARCH AND DIAGNOSTICS

Thyroid disorders are prevalent globally.

- By Dr S Satish Kumar, HOD & Lead Consultant - Endocrinology, Diabetology & Bariatric Medicine, Aster RV Hospital

With rising cases of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, autoimmune thyroiditis, thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancers, the need for advanced diagnostics, targeted treatments, and evidence-based medicine has been in demand.

India, too, is no exception. Thyroid diseases differ from others as far as diagnosis is concerned, since medical treatment is easily accessible, and the small swelling of the thyroid gives relative visibility to the healthcare professional treating the person. Women are far more likely than men to have hypothyroidism, which is around 3%, and hyperthyroidism, which is less than 2%. In India, the prevalence of thyroid disorders varies by age, sex, and region. Iodine deficiency was historically the main culprit. The condition of thyroid gland enlargement or 'goitre' is reported in about 4-7% Indians. Research suggests that thyroid disorders are the cause of 10-12% of the Indian population's problems.

More women in the 25-45 age group are testing positive for thyroid imbalances, particularly hypothyroidism, especially in tier 1 and tier 2 cities. There are multiple studies conducted in India that reveal that 8-15% of pregnant women might have thyroid malfunction, which has led obstetricians to demand more frequent screening. In addition to the greater prevalence of autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, women are five to eight times more likely than men to experience thyroid Thyroid dysfunction due to hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause.