In a nutshell
This study looked at the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other complications in diabetic patients with low thyroid function (hypothyroidism; HT). They found that diabetic patients with HT were not at increased risk of major heart disease or stroke. However, these patients were more likely to develop diabetic eye disease and kidney disease.
Some background
Hypothyroidism (HT) is a condition in which the thyroid gland in the neck does not function properly. This can lead to problems including fatigue, weight gain, and low mood. Patients with diabetes are more likely to suffer from HT than the rest of the population. It is not known if having HT puts these patients at greater risk of complications of diabetes.
Methods & findings
The authors searched three databases to find studies about the effects of HT in diabetes. They analyzed 8 studies that were relevant. These studies compared diabetics with HT (group 1) to diabetics with no thyroid problems (group 2). They compared the risk of serious heart disease, stroke, diabetic eye disease, and kidney disease between the two groups.
Patients in group 1 were 73% more likely to develop diabetic eye disease than group 2 patients. They were also 22% more likely to develop kidney disease. However, group 1 patients had no greater risk of serious heart disease or stroke than group 2 patients.
The bottom line
This study showed that diabetic patients with hypothyroidism are more likely to develop eye and kidney complications.
The fine print
This study is based on previous research studies that used a variety of methods. Further studies are required.
What’s next?
Speak to your physician if you have concerns about thyroid disease.
Published By :
Frontiers in Endocrinology
Date :
Jan 31, 2020
