Assessment of medication adherence and risk factors for hypothyroidism in South Indian Tertiary care hospital: a cross–sectional study

Thyroid diseases are, arguably, among the commonest endocrine disorders worldwide. India too, is no exception. According to a projection from various studies on thyroid disease, it has been estimated that about 42 million people in India suffer from thyroid diseases.1 The prevalence of hypothyroidism in the developed world is about 4-5%. The prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism in the developed world is about 4-15%. In a developing and densely populated country like India, communicable diseases are priority health concerns due to their large contribution to the national disease burden.2 A correct etiological, anatomical and functional diagnosis of the thyroid problem is absolutely essential for the proper treatment and well being of the patient.3