Prevalence and Pattern of Thyroid Dysfunction in Newly Detected Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients at a Tertiary Care Centre

Abstract

Background: Thyroid dysfunction (TD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) commonly coexist and influence each other’s clinical course. This study describes the prevalence and pattern of TD among newly diagnosed T2DM patients at a tertiary care centre.
Methods: Hospital-based cross-sectional observational study of 100 newly diagnosed T2DM patients (October 2022–September 2023). Thyroid function was measured using serum T3, T4 and TSH. Subjects were classified per the ATA-relevant reference ranges. Demographic and anthropometric data were recorded and analyzed. The original dataset and tables are from the study file.
Results: Overall TD prevalence was 29% (n=29). Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) was most common (16%), followed by overt hypothyroidism (9%), subclinical hyperthyroidism (3%) and overt hyperthyroidism (1%). TD was more frequent in females (female:male = 55:45 overall; higher TD frequency among females) and in those with higher BMI and poorer glycemic control. Microvascular complications were more frequent in patients with TD.
Conclusion: A substantial proportion (29%) of newly detected T2DM patients had TD, with SCH being predominant. Routine thyroid screening at diabetes diagnosis should be considered as part of comprehensive endocrine care.