The Prevalence of Thyroid Maladies with a Focus on Hyperthyroidism and Goiter at District Jamshoro, Sindh, Pakistan

Abstract

The present study investigates the prevalence and risk factors of thyroid disorders, specifically hyperthyroidism and goiter, in the mixed population of District Jamshoro and patients visiting NIMRA and LUHMS hospitals. A cross-sectional quantitative approach was used. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire comprising bio data, thyroid conditions, and dietary practices. Blood samples from thyroid patients were analyzed for FT3, FT4, and TSH using automated analyzers. A total of 120 participants were enrolled, including 85 females (70.83%), 33 males (27.5%), and 2 children (1.66%), aged 18–65 years.

Hyperthyroidism was observed in 95 patients (79.16%), of whom 70 (73.68%) were females and 25 (26.31%) were males. Goiter was identified in 25 patients (20.83%), including 15 females (60%), 8 males (32%), and 2 children (8%). The surveyed population predominantly consumed filtered surface water from the Indus River rather than groundwater. Goiter was more common in communities relying on this water source. To investigate environmental factors, 200 water samples were analyzed using handheld colorimeters and spectrophotometers. Iodine levels ranged from 3–5 µg/L, indicating insufficient iodine concentration in the local water. These findings suggest that both environmental and dietary iodine levels in the region are low, placing residents at increased risk of iodine deficiency disorders.

The study concludes that iodine deficiency, linked to low iodine levels in drinking water and locally available food, contributes significantly to the prevalence of hyperthyroidism and goiter in Jamshoro. Strengthening iodized salt consumption and public health awareness is recommended.