Estimation of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone levels in pregnancy in a South Indian town- Kumbakonam Urban Rural Epidemiological Study – KURES 4

Abstract

Thyroid dysfunction in pregnancy, especially hidden, may lead on to increased morbidities both in mothers and the foetuses. With this in mind, we conducted a study of estimating Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) levels in the first trimester of asymptomatic antenatal mothers. In this 680-sample sized study, we measured TSH values after noting down, age, weight, religion, occupation and type of diet. The mean TSH value is 2.36 (0.02 to 31.67) mIU/ml. the incidence of subclinical hypothyroidism was 9.1 % whereas it was 2.9% in hyperthyroidism. All parturients with subclinical thyroid dysfunction were given appropriate treatment. The Hindus and Muslims constituted the majority. There was no difference between TSH values among both religions. Around 95 % were vegetarians, and the value of TSH was similar in parturients with either type of eating habits. A significantly higher level of thyroid dysfunction is noted in working women even though the sample is less. These values correspond to an affording community above the poverty line. We suggest more vigilant screening at the village antenatal care level to decrease thyroid associated fetal and maternal morbidities. We also suggest that routine TSH screening rather than targeted testing of thyroid disorders should be made mandatory even in Government institutions.