The thyroid gland

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of the neck, in front of the windpipe. It is the “master controller” of metabolism and plays a key role in our health and wellbeing.¹ It makes, stores and releases thyroid hormones into the blood, thus regulating metabolism. These hormones are essential for the proper functioning of all bodily tissues and organs. They enable our body to use its stores of energy efficiently, thereby controlling temperature and allowing our organs and muscles to work properly.²

The thyroid gland produces two types of thyroid hormone: thyroxine (T4) and tri-iodothyronine (T3). The production of thyroid hormones is controlled by another hormone known as thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), which is produced by the pituitary gland, a hormone control centre in the brain. 

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How common are thyroid disorders?

Too little thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism) or too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) can lead to health issues.¹

In Singapore, about 4‒7% of the population have a thyroid disorder. Around 90% of thyroid patients are affected by hyperthyroidism and the remaining 10% have hypothyroidism.³

Who is at risk?

Thyroid dysfunction is common throughout the world, especially in women. This could be partly due to the autoimmune nature of many thyroid disorders, since autoimmune diseases are more common in women than men.⁴ 

Certain times in a woman’s life make her more vulnerable to thyroid problems. These include:^4,5

• Recent pregnancy (hyperthyroidism)
• Experiencing hormonal changes due to pregnancy, childbirth or during the menopause (hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism)
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Ethnicity may also play a role in thyroid disorders. In Singapore, Chinese ethnic groups have a higher risk for hyperthyroidism and Indians are at higher risk for hypothyroidism.³

Regardless of your sex or ethnicity, you are at risk of thyroid dysfunction if you:^4,6,7

• Have a family history of thyroid problems or autoimmune disorders (hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism)
• Have an autoimmune disease such as type 1 diabetes (hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism)
• Have Down’s or Turner’s syndrome (hypothyroidism)
• Have had thyroid surgery (hypothyroidism)
• Have received treatment for hyperthyroidism (hypothyroidism)
• Have a personal history of lithium or amiodarone use (hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism)
• Have consumed significant amounts of iodine via food or medication (hyperthyroidism)
• People who have had radiation treatments to neck or upper chest (hypothyroidism)

Summary

Thyroid dysfunction is common throughout the world, especially in women. This could be partly due to the autoimmune nature of many thyroid disorders, since autoimmune diseases are more common in women than men.⁴ 

• Thyroid gland located at the base of the neck and is the master controller of metabolism
• Too little thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism) or too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) can lead to health issues
• Thyroid disorders are more common in women.