A cross-sectional study on impact of thyroid disorders in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Introduction. Diabetes mellitus and thyroid disorders are two prevalent endocrine conditions that frequently coexist. Even subtle variations in thyroid hormone levels within the normal range may influence the risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), particularly in prediabetic individuals. This study aimed to explore the relationship between thyroid dysfunction and T2DM. Materials and methods. This descriptive cross-sectional study included 66 T2DM patients attending the general medicine and endocrine outpatient department (OPD) of Apollo Specialty Hospital. Among them, 33 had a diagnosed thyroid dysfunction (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism), and 33 had no history of thyroid disorders. All patients underwent clinical evaluation and laboratory investigations, including a thyroid profile and glycemic markers. Results. Glycemic control, measured by HbA1c, was comparable between both groups. A negative correlation was observed between HbA1c and TSH (r = -0.110, p > 0.05), indicating that thyroid dysfunction did not significantly impact glycemic control. However, T2DM patients with thyroid dysfunction exhibited higher mean values of BMI, diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol compared to those without thyroid dysfunction. Conclusion. Although thyroid dysfunction did not significantly affect glycemic control in this cohort, it was associated with elevated BMI, adverse lipid profiles, and higher diastolic blood pressure—factors linked to increased cardiovascular risk. These findings underscore the importance of routine monitoring for metabolic and cardiovascular risk markers in T2DM patients with coexisting thyroid disorders.