Thyroid disorders are common amongst the general population, especially in women. According to studies, approximately 10 percent of the population have been diagnosed with minor anomalies in thyroid tests.
According to the Finnish FinnDiane research, the incidence rate of underactivity of the thyroid (hypothyroidism) in adults with type 1 diabetes was 18 percent, whereas it was 6 percent amongst the control group. The reason for the increased thyroid underacitivity in people with type 2 diabetes is not known.
Thyroid overactivity, also known as hyperthyroidism, is less common. According to the Finnish FinnDiane research, the incidence rate of thyroid overactivity in adults with type 1 diabetes was 2,4 per cent, whereas it was 0,8 per cent amongst the control group. Compared to the general population, overactivity of the thyroid is not obviously more common in people with type 2 diabetes.
Thyroid activity screening uses blood tests to measure the level of thyrotropic hormone produced and released by the pituitary gland when diabetes is first diagnosed and then every 3–5 years or when planning for pregnancy.
Thyroid disoders can include goitre, which is a lump or swelling on either side of the thyroid. In underactivity of the thyroid, the thyroid can reduce in size.
Both thyroid underactivity and overactivity must be treated. If they go untreated for a long time, they involve a higher risk of heart disease.