Prevalence of Thyroid Dysfunction Among Postmenopausal Women in Baghdad Medical City

Background: One of the most frequent endocrine abnormalities and changes in females, especially during the postmenopausal period, is thyroid dysfunction. Objectives: To assess the prevalence and pattern of thyroid dysfunction among postmenopausal women visiting Baghdad Medical City. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done in Baghdad Medical City over two months. A total of 469 postmenopausal women were asked, 63 were interviewed, and 50 were confirmed to have thyroid dysfunction and met our inclusion criteria, whether based on history taking or laboratory results. Data were collected through structured interviews and analyzed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics summarized sample characteristics, and the Chi-square test assessed the association between age groups and some sociodemographic variables and thyroid status. Results: The prevalence of thyroid dysfunction among postmenopausal women was 10.66%, with hypothyroidism (58%) predominating over hyperthyroidism (42%). Most participants were illiterate (62%), unemployed (74%), and married (80%). A higher prevalence of thyroid dysfunction was observed among women with earlier menopause (45–54 years); however, this association did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.60). The majority (68%) experienced natural menopause, while (32%) had surgical menopause. Conclusion: Thyroid dysfunction represents a notable endocrine disorder among postmenopausal women in Baghdad, with hypothyroidism being the predominant form.