PREVALENCE, CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS, AND COMORBIDITIES OF HYPOTHYROIDISM IN THE GERIATRIC POPULATION: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
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Keywords
Hypothyroidism; Geriatric population; Prevalence
Abstract
Background: Hypothyroidism is a common but often underdiagnosed condition in the elderly due to its nonspecific presentation, which overlaps with normal aging and comorbidities. This study aims to assess the prevalence, clinical manifestations, and associated comorbidities of hypothyroidism in the geriatric population. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Department of Medicine, Pt. B.D. Sharma PGIMS, Rohtak, over one year. A total of 100 geriatric patients (>60 years) with suspected thyroid dysfunction were enrolled. Clinical history, physical examination, and laboratory investigations were performed. Statistical analysis using SPSS version 21 included descriptive statistics and correlation analyses to assess associations between hypothyroidism and clinical parameters. Results: The mean age was 66.16 ± 5.54 years, with 59% aged 61–65 years. Hypothyroidism was more prevalent in females (87%) than males (13%). Common symptoms included easy fatigability (53%), generalized weakness (15%), and weight gain (10%). Hypertension (36%) was the most frequent comorbidity, followed by diabetes (15%). Clinical findings included bradycardia, dry skin, and pallor. Autoimmune thyroid disease accounted for 20% of cases, while 75% had an undetermined etiology. Conclusion: Hypothyroidism is highly prevalent but often overlooked in elderly patients, particularly women. The nonspecific nature of symptoms and the presence of multiple comorbidities complicate timely diagnosis and management. Routine screening in high-risk individuals and personalized treatment strategies are crucial for improving clinical outcomes and quality of life in geriatric patients.
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Shalu Soothwal
Junior Resident, Dept of General Medicine, Pt. B D SHARMA PGIMS ROHTAK, HR, INDIA
Sanjay Fotedar
Associate Professor, Dept of General Medicine, Pt. B D SHARMA PGIMS ROHTAK, HR, INDIA
Sandeep Singh Arora
Associate Professor, Dept. Of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Pt. B D SHARMA PGIMS ROHTAK, HR, INDIA
Thakur DC
Junior Resident, Dept of General Medicine, Pt. B D SHARMA PGIMS ROHTAK, HR, INDIA
Prashant P
Senior Resident, Dept. Of Biochemistry, Pt. B D SHARMA PGIMS ROHTAK, HR, INDIA