DIABETES MELLITUS IN PATIENTS WITH HYPOTHYROIDISM PRESENTING TO A TERTIARY CARE FACILITY

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of diabetes mellitus (DM) in patients of hypothyroidism. Methods:In this cross-sectional study, we included 91 patients with a primary diagnosis of hypothyroidism who presented in Bolan Medical Complex Hospital, Quetta, from 24 August 2024 to 23 February 2025. In all patients, HbA1c test was performed; patients with HbA1c levels >6.5% or those already taking anti-diabetic treatment were labelled as diabetic. Results:The average age was 54.7 years (±6.1), the duration of hypothyroidism averaged 4.5 years (±3.6), and the mean Body Mass Index (BMI) was 25.3 kg/m² (±2.7). In terms of gender distribution, there were 34 males (37.4%) and 57 females (62.6%). Out of 91 patients, DM was diagnosed in 31 (34.01%) patients. Conclusion: Diabetes mellitus often coexists with hypothyroidism. As a result, it is important to conduct routine diabetes assessments for individuals with thyroid disorders and to evaluate thyroid function in those diagnosed with diabetes. This proactive approach helps prevent complications and ensures better management of both conditions.