The clinical implications of interacting hypothyroid and diabetes mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by insulin resistance and impaired glucose uptake, affecting millions worldwide. Hypothyroidism, a common thyroid disorder, frequently coexists with T2DM, complicating disease management. This study investigates the prevalence of hypothyroidism in T2DM patients and its relationship with lipid profiles and clinical parameters. A total of 275 diabetic patients and 136 healthy controls were included. Glycemic control, thyroid function, lipid profiles, and vitamin D levels were assessed. Results indicated that in the diabetic group, (39%) had non-hypothyroidism, while (44%) had hypothyroidism. People with both conditions had a higher average BMI of 31.2 ± 5.1 kg/m² than those with just T2DM (mean: 29.5 ± 4.8 kg/m², p < 0.05). Hypothyroid diabetics had higher fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels (average: 162 ± 20 mg/dL) compared to non-hypothyroid diabetics (average: 145 ± 18 mg/dL). The hypothyroid group showed higher HbA1c levels than the control group (mean: 8.7% vs. 7.9%, p < 0.01). Hypothyroid diabetics showed significantly poorer lipid profiles compared to non-hypothyroid diabetics, with lower HDL (mean: 35 ± 8 mg/dL) and higher LDL (mean: 145 ± 25 mg/dL) and triglycerides (mean: 220 ± 45 mg/dL). Hypothyroid diabetic individuals had a higher prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency (average: 12.3 ± 4.6 ng/mL) than control subjects (average: 21.6 ± 5.1 ng/mL, p < 0.001). In conclusion, the study found that 44% of diabetics have hypothyroidism, which is linked to poorer metabolic indicators compared to diabetics without hypothyroidism. Individuals who have both conditions showed increased BMI, higher fasting blood sugar levels, poorer lipid profiles, and decreased levels of Vitamin D. These results highlight the importance of implementing specific management plans for diabetic individuals who also have hypothyroidism.