The data reveals thatThyroid diseases are one of the commonly occurring endocrine disorders across the length and breadth of the country. It is estimated thatabout 200 million people suffer from thyroid disorders worldwide and amongst those 42 million are in India.

Out of the more than 20 lakh samples screened by SRL for thyroid disorders, 25.3 per cent of the total samples were found with abnormal TSH levels.Women had ahigher percentage of abnormality (26%) as compared to men (24%). This was in agreement with the common findings of various medical research studies. The analysis further showed that the highest prevalence of abnormal TSH values was in the eastern zone of the country (27% of the samples).

Eastern Zone in India had the highest percentage of abnormality at 27 percent, followed by North Zone with 26 percent. Among the zones, southern and Western India showed lower percentages of abnormality at 22 percent each.

Leena, Director Fortis Labs, said, “There is a significant need for reaching out to the masses and making people aware of the causes, symptoms, treatment and importance of testing for thyroid disorders. SRL Diagnostic’s in-house data analysis on thyroid tests assessed  nationwide data for abnormal thyroid results in both men and women residing in various cities, of diverse occupations, socio-economic status and food habits. ”

”However our analysis result cannot be extrapolated to infer population prevalence of thyroid illness as for that a nationwide systematic disease survey should be done” she added.

She said, “The thyroid problems involve abnormal production of thyroid hormones. Excess thyroid hormone results in a condition known as hyperthyroidism. While insufficient hormone production leads to hypothyroidism. Most thyroid problems can be managed well if properly diagnosed and treated.”