THYROID PROFILE IN PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS – A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Diabetes Mellitus is a significant global health issue, characterized by chronic hyperglycemia resulting from insulin resistance and/or inadequate insulin secretion. The disease affects carbohydrate, lipid, and protein metabolism, leading to various complications, including cardiovascular disease and neuropathy. T2DM has been shown to have a strong association with thyroid dysfunction. Both diabetes and thyroid disorders impact metabolic processes, particularly glucose metabolism. Thus, investigating the thyroid profile in these patients is vital to prevent complications and improve treatment outcomes. This study was designed as a cross-sectional investigation involving 104 patients diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Fasting and postprandial plasma glucose levels were measured using the glucose oxidase-peroxidase (GOD-POD) method and serum levels of total T3, T4, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) were assessed using chemiluminescence immunoassay techniques. Most patients are euthyroid (71.1%), with 19.2% having subclinical hypothyroidism, which aligns with the increased risk of thyroid dysfunction in diabetics. Euthyroid patients have lower mean FBS and PPBS values compared to those with subclinical hypothyroidism, indicating that thyroid dysfunction may contribute to poorer glycemic control. Given the high prevalence of thyroid dysfunction, particularly subclinical hypothyroidism, in patients with T2DM, routine thyroid function screening should be considered as part of diabetes management. Early detection and treatment of thyroid disorders could improve glycemic control and reduce the risk of associated complications.