FREQUENCY OF THYROID DYSFUNCTION IN CASES OF METABOLIC SYNDROME PRESENTING AT TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Thyroid dysfunction is frequently observed in patients with metabolic syndrome, impacting their overall health outcomes. Objective: To determine the frequency of thyroid dysfunction in patients with metabolic syndrome. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Medicine, Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad, from September 2023 to March 2024. A total of 120 patients diagnosed with metabolic syndrome were included. The patients' thyroid function was assessed through clinical evaluation and laboratory tests, including serum levels of TSH, free T3, and free T4. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics to determine the frequency of thyroid dysfunction, with results expressed as percentages and means ± standard deviations. Results: The average age of the 120 patients was 44.64±9.01 years. The frequency of thyroid dysfunction among these patients was 68.4% (82/120). Subclinical hypothyroidism was present in 27.5% (33/120), hypothyroidism in 14.2% (17/120), and subclinical hyperthyroidism in 4.2% (5/120). Conclusion: The study found a high frequency of thyroid dysfunction (68.4%) in patients with metabolic syndrome, with subclinical hypothyroidism being the most prevalent form. These findings highlight the importance of regular thyroid function screening in patients with metabolic syndrome to ensure early diagnosis and management.