Thyroid dysfunction and metabolic dysregulation: A cross-sectional study of hormonal and glycemic parameters

Background: Thyroid dysfunction, encompassing hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, has been implicated in metabolic dysregulation, including disturbances in glucose and lipid metabolism. Given the rising global prevalence of metabolic disorders such as diabetes and dyslipidemia, understanding the interplay between thyroid hormones and metabolic health is crucial. This study aimed to investigate the association between thyroid dysfunction and metabolic parameters in a clinical population. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Diabetic Care Center, Dhaka, from January to June 2023, involving 140 adult participants. Thyroid function (TSH, FT₃, FT₄), glycemic markers (FBG, ABF, HbA1c), and lipid profiles were assessed. Statistical analyses included correlation tests and multivariate regression to evaluate relationships between thyroid and metabolic parameters. Results: The study revealed that hypothyroid participants had significantly higher fasting blood glucose (124.7 ± 18.9 mg/dL vs. 108.3 ± 14.5 mg/dL, p < 0.01), postprandial glucose (165.5 ± 25.4 mg/dL vs. 143.9 ± 20.2 mg/dL, p < 0.01), and HbA1c (7.4 ± 1.3% vs. 6.5 ± 1.1%, p < 0.01) compared to euthyroid individuals. Additionally, hypothyroidism was associated with elevated total cholesterol (218.6 ± 34.5 mg/dL vs. 190.4 ± 28.6 mg/dL, p < 0.05) and LDL (141.7 ± 27.8 mg/dL vs. 119.5 ± 23.3 mg/dL, p < 0.05), alongside reduced HDL (39.2 ± 7.3 mg/dL vs. 44.7 ± 8.9 mg/dL, p = 0.04). Hyperthyroid patients also exhibited metabolic disturbances, including higher FBG (116.1 ± 16.8 mg/dL) and triglycerides (176.5 ± 38.7 mg/dL). Correlation analysis demonstrated a significant association between TSH and HbA1c (r = 0.38, p < 0.01), reinforcing the role of thyroid dysfunction in metabolic dysregulation. Conclusion: Thyroid dysfunction, particularly hypothyroidism, is significantly associated with impaired glycemic control and dyslipidemia. Routine thyroid screening in metabolic disorder patients and integrated management strategies are recommended to mitigate cardiovascular and diabetic risks.