Prevalence of Hypothyroidism in Type 2 Diabetes Patients at a Tertiary Care Centre

Background: Both type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypothyroidism are common endocrine disorders that often coexist. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 200 consecutive T2DM patients attending the outpatient department of NAMS Bir Hospital. TSH levels were measured for all participants. Results: Hypothyroidism was detected in 32 (16%) patients. Female sex (OR 3.2, p<0.01) and age >50 years (OR 2.1, p=0.03) were significant risk factors. Subclinical hypothyroidism was present in 12% and overt in 4%. Conclusions: The prevalence of hypothyroidism in T2DM is significantly higher than in the general population. Routine TSH screening in T2DM patients is recommended.