ABSTRACT
Background: Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder worldwide. The prevalence of hypothyroidism depends on many factors, such as age, sex and geographical factors
Objective: This study is carried out to assess the prevalence of hypothyroidism and the related etiology and risks in the general population of Arar city, northern border of Saudi Arabia
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Arar, Northern Saudi Arabia. A multistage stratified random sampling technique was used. A pre-designed online questionnaire was distributed among the targeted population and filled by participants after a brief introduction or explanation of the idea of the research to the public. Sampled participants filled out the self-reported predesigned questionnaire to collect socioeconomic and thyroid diseases related data
Results: In our study, the prevalence of hypothyroidism was 25.5% [116/454], females are more affected than males, as 57.7% of the cases were female, most of them [80%] aged 21-60 years old and 40% of the cases has a family history of the disease. 64.7% of the cases were on medical treatment but only 16% of them responded. While surgical treatment were found in only 8% of the cases
Conclusion: Hypothyroidism is prevalent in Arar, Northern Saudi Arabia, females were more affected than males. Knowledge of factors influencing thyroid dysfunction help the public to guard against these prevalent diseases. More studies should be carried out in Arar city to stress on the individual thyroid disorder. The studies should be community based with clinical and laboratory diagnosis of cases