Abstract

KNOWLEDGE, AWARENESS ABOUT THYROID DISORDERS AND DETECTION OF COMPLICATION IN THYROID PATIENTS

Sharon Varghese*, Chinju K. Sabu, Arya O. and Shara Abraham

ABSTRACT

Back Ground: Thyroid diseases are among the commonest endocrine disorders worldwide, early detection and diagnosis of thyroid disease is fundamental. People affected by thyroid diseases often have inadequate knowledge about the nature of thyroid diseases, its risk factors and associated complications. Methods: A prospective observational cross sectional study was conducted in Nazareth College of pharmacy as a part of thyroid camp organized by Thyrocare, Thiruvalla, and Kerala. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on demographic parameters and to check subjects' knowledge, awareness, practice (KAP) with respect to hypothyroidism and adherence of treatment. Result: Out of 110 participants attended the study, the participants were classified in to 4 age groups, 41-60 (38%), then age 21-40 are of (35.5%) then below 20 years are of (15.5%) and rest of patients are over 60 years having 11%. 31% of the population had thyroid disease (hypothyroidism) while 69% were free from disease, in which 21% were previously diagnosed and 10% were diagnosed at the camp (recently)., Thyroid disease was observed highest in females 73.5% and males are only a small proportion 26.5%. Family history 35 % remains as the most common risk factor for thyroid disease. The most common complication identified in our study was opthalmopathy 38%. The population’s knowledge about thyroid disease was assessed by placing a scoring criteria, and found that education plays an important role in acquiring knowledge. Middle school, not attended schools and primary had poor knowledge while graduate and post graduate had better knowledge regarding thyroid disorders, cause, functions of thyroid gland and symptoms of hypo/hyperthyroidism. 65% of them were adhered to their treatment and causes of non-adherence in rest of the patients were assessed. Conclusion: This study recommended that health policy makers must conduct more effective health education sessions to increase knowledge of the population and their caregivers about various aspects of thyroid diseases and the importance of compliance with its treatment.

Keywords: Awareness, knowledge, complication, thyroid disorders.