Health Science

Double the time, double the risk of hypothyroidism

According to a recent research, people who spend more than 3 hours per day watching television have double the risk of developing hypothyroidism as compared to individuals who watch less than an hour. The article discusses the potential reasons behind this link and other risk factors for hypothyroidism by noahbyrd
Estimated reading time: 2 min 50 sec
Double the time, double the risk of hypothyroidism Photo by Jonathan Campos on Pexels

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland fails to produce enough thyroid hormones, which are essential for maintaining the body’s metabolism. This condition affects millions of people worldwide, and its incidence is on the rise.

What is the Thyroid Gland?

The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck. It produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and energy level.

What Causes Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism can be caused by a variety of factors, including:.

  • Aging
  • Autoimmune disorders
  • Congenital disorders
  • Certain medications
  • Radiation therapy
  • Thyroid surgery

Signs and Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

Some of the common signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism include:.

  • Fatigue
  • Weight gain
  • Cold intolerance
  • Constipation
  • Dry skin
  • Hair loss
  • Joint pain
  • Menstrual changes
  • Depression

Double the Time, Double the Risk of Hypothyroidism

According to a recent research, people who spend more than 3 hours per day watching television have double the risk of developing hypothyroidism as compared to individuals who watch less than an hour.

The study was conducted on over 3,200 adults aged 40 years and older.

The researchers observed the association between TV viewing time and the risk of hypothyroidism over a period of five years.

They found that those who watched more than 3 hours of TV each day had a 1.6 times higher risk of developing hypothyroidism than those who watched for less than an hour.

Related Article Hypothyroidism risk doubles over time Hypothyroidism risk doubles over time

This increased risk was independent of various other factors, such as age, sex, education, smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity, and body mass index (BMI).

The link between TV Viewing Time and Hypothyroidism

Although the exact mechanism behind the link between TV viewing time and hypothyroidism is not yet clear, the researchers speculate that prolonged sitting and a sedentary lifestyle could have an impact on the metabolism and thyroid hormones.

Another possibility is that the blue light emitted by screens could disrupt the production of melatonin, which is a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, and in turn, affect the levels of thyroid hormones.

Other Risk Factors for Hypothyroidism

Apart from prolonged TV viewing time, there are several other risk factors for hypothyroidism, including:.

  • Age – As we age, the risk of hypothyroidism increases
  • Sex – Women are more likely to develop hypothyroidism than men
  • Autoimmune disorders – These conditions can damage the thyroid gland and affect its ability to produce hormones
  • Radiation therapy – Exposure to radiation can damage the thyroid gland
  • Thyroid surgery – Removal of all or part of the thyroid gland can lead to hypothyroidism
  • Certain medications – Some medications can interfere with thyroid hormones

Prevention and Treatment of Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism cannot be prevented, but it can be managed effectively with medication. The standard treatment for hypothyroidism is thyroid hormone replacement therapy, which involves taking daily doses of synthetic thyroid hormone.

In addition to medication, making certain lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can help manage the symptoms of hypothyroidism and improve overall health.

Conclusion

Hypothyroidism is a common condition that can have a significant impact on a person’s health and well-being.

While there are several risk factors for this condition, including age, sex, and certain medical treatments, recent research suggests that prolonged TV viewing time could increase the risk of developing hypothyroidism. By making certain lifestyle changes and seeking appropriate medical treatment, individuals with hypothyroidism can manage their symptoms effectively and lead a healthy, fulfilling life.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

Follow us on Google News

Stay informed on the latest news and trends in the healthcare industry.

Follow
Also check Risk factors for maternal mortality during pregnancy Risk factors for maternal mortality during pregnancy Do you tire easily? Know your risk for heart disease and stroke Do you tire easily? Know your risk for heart disease and stroke Is Bacon a Major Contributor to Bowel Cancer? Is Bacon a Major Contributor to Bowel Cancer? How likely is depression in 15-year-olds? This tool will tell you How likely is depression in 15-year-olds? This tool will tell you Does Sugar Increase the Risk of Dementia? Does Sugar Increase the Risk of Dementia? Examining the Fundamental Differences between Male and Female Heart Attacks Examining the Fundamental Differences between Male and Female Heart Attacks Female-specific risk factors for asthma Female-specific risk factors for asthma The link between stretch marks and cancer The link between stretch marks and cancer The Link Between Diabetes and Kidney Disease: Symptoms & Risk Factors The Link Between Diabetes and Kidney Disease: Symptoms & Risk Factors Risk of thrombosis remains high after coronary infection Risk of thrombosis remains high after coronary infection Minimizing the Risk of Osteoporosis: Factors to Consider Minimizing the Risk of Osteoporosis: Factors to Consider Every year, osteoporosis claims the lives of many older adults. Every year, osteoporosis claims the lives of many older adults. Research findings show possible connection between birth control pills and breast cancer Research findings show possible connection between birth control pills and breast cancer The Anonymous Hazard That Puts Our Hearts at Risk The Anonymous Hazard That Puts Our Hearts at Risk Is Your Teenager at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes? Is Your Teenager at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes? The correlation between walking pace and stroke and heart attack The correlation between walking pace and stroke and heart attack The Role of Thyroid Hormones in Obesity Management The Role of Thyroid Hormones in Obesity Management Exploring the Connection Between Diabetes and Risk Factors Exploring the Connection Between Diabetes and Risk Factors Blood type and erectile dysfunction risk: What’s the link? Blood type and erectile dysfunction risk: What’s the link? Can these 5 questions predict Alzheimer’s? Can these 5 questions predict Alzheimer’s? Is Fluoride in Your Water Harmful to Your Health? Is Fluoride in Your Water Harmful to Your Health? The Hidden Link between Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease The Hidden Link between Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease How often should a child’s hearing be tested? How often should a child’s hearing be tested? Preventing Alzheimer’s: How Early Should You Start? Preventing Alzheimer’s: How Early Should You Start? Steaming Ahead: A New Threat to Diabetes Prevention Steaming Ahead: A New Threat to Diabetes Prevention How likely are you to develop high blood pressure? How likely are you to develop high blood pressure? Completed 5-year study on cardiovascular disease in Elafonissos under PERSEAS program Completed 5-year study on cardiovascular disease in Elafonissos under PERSEAS program Understanding the Global Impact of COPD Understanding the Global Impact of COPD Postpartum depression predictor test for new mothers Postpartum depression predictor test for new mothers
To top