A prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in Kathmandu University Hospital, Nepal

Thyroid dysfunction is one of the most commonly encountered endocrine abnormalities. The screening of thyroid dysfunction is recommended in Nepal with its high risk population. Many factors are responsible for exacerbating the thyroid dysfunction in the context of Nepal. Therefore, this study was designed to assess the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in Dhulikhel Hospital-Kathmandu University Hospital (DH-KUH). In this hospital based retrospective study, 825 subjects (resident of Kavre) that were subjected to thyroid function test panel (free tri-iodothyronine, free thyroxine and thyroid stimulating hormone) were enrolled and the thyroid dysfunction was stratified as hypothyroidism, subclinical hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, subclinical hyperthyroidism with reference to hormonal levels. Among 825 subjects, the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction was 25%. Females had more thyroid dysfunction than males. Hypothyroidism (8%) and subclinical hypothyroidism (8%) had higher prevalence compared to subclinical hyperthyroidism (6%) and hyperthyroidism (3%). Higher prevalence of thyroid dysfunction was observed in subjects with age above 30 years. In conclusion, this study revealed the higher prevalence of abnormal thyroid function and concurs with previous reports in other populations. Hypothyroidism and subclinical hypothyroidism are preponderant followed by subclinical hyperthyroidism. Females and advanced aged people are more vulnerable to thyroid dysfunction in the population. Since, it was a hospital-based study; the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction may not be applicable to the general population. Extensive field-based countrywide epidemiological studies are necessary to provide accurate data about thyroid dysfunction in the community.