PREVALENCE AND CLINICAL FEATURES OF IODINE DEFICIENCY INDUCED HYPOTHYROIDISM IN DISTRICT MARDAN, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder with significant health consequences, particularly among women, yet local data from District Mardan are limited. This study was conducted to evaluate the demographic characteristics, clinical features, body mass index (BMI) status, disease duration, and treatment patterns of patients diagnosed with hypothyroidism. A cross-sectional design was used, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed. A total of 100 hypothyroid patients aged 10-80 years were included in the study. Of these, 95% were female and 5% were males. The most affected age group was 30–40 years (37%), indicating that individuals in their reproductive years are at greater risk. A high prevalence of obesity was observed among the participants, with the majority belonging to Obese Class I (34%) and Obese Class II (22%), demonstrating a strong association between obesity and hypothyroidism. Clinically, most patients presented with multiple classical features of hypothyroidism. Weight gain (95%), fatigue (87%), muscle pain (90%), puffiness of the face and extremities (96%), restlessness (96%), hair loss (71%), rough skin (72%), and constipation (63%) were commonly reported. A history of infertility and menstrual irregularities was also frequent among females of reproductive age, highlighting the impact of thyroid dysfunction on reproductive health. Disease onset was most commonly reported within the past 1–5 years (58%), suggesting either increased detection or a rising burden of disease. Medical management was the primary treatment approach, with 98% of patients receiving pharmacological therapy. Levothyroxine was the most commonly prescribed medication, particularly thyroxine 50 µg, and moderate dosing (2–3 tablets) was preferred by the majority of patients. In conclusion, hypothyroidism in District Mardan predominantly affects females and obese individuals and is associated with a high clinical symptom burden. Early screening, public awareness, and strengthened primary healthcare services are essential to improve early diagnosis and management outcomes.