Effect of hypothyroidism on lipid profile in pre- and post-menopausal women in Erbil city

Abstract

Background: Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder that disrupts lipid metabolism, thereby increasing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Postmenopausal women are especially vulnerable due to hormonal changes that exacerbate dyslipidemia.

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of hypothyroidism on lipid profiles in pre- and post-menopausal women, and to determine whether menopausal status modifies the severity of dyslipidemia in patients with hypothyroidism.

Methods: A case-control study was conducted involving 150 women aged 40–65 years, divided into four groups based on thyroid function and menopausal status. Serum levels of TSH, FT3, FT4, Total cholesterol (TC), Triglycerides (TG), VLDL, LDL-C, and HDL-C were measured using standardized biochemical techniques. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 28, with significance set at (p<0.05).

Results: Women with hypothyroidism exhibited significantly elevated levels of TC, TG, VLDL, and LDL-C along with reduced HDL-C, compared to euthyroid controls (p<0.05). These lipid abnormalities were more pronounced in post-menopausal hypothyroid women, particularly TG, VLDL, and HDL-C (p<0.05). Additionally, post-menopausal women displayed higher TSH and lower FT3 and FT4 levels.

Conclusions: Hypothyroidism is significantly associated with atherogenic dyslipidemia in both pre- and post-menopausal women, with more severe lipid disturbances observed in post-menopause. Regular screening of thyroid function test and lipid profile, particularly in postmenopausal women, is crucial for early intervention and reduction of cardiovascular disease risk.

ABBREVIATIONS:

TSH – Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone

FT3 – Free Triiodothyronine

FT4 – Free Thyroxine

TC – Total Cholesterol

TG – Triglycerides

VLDL – Very-Low-Density Lipoprotein

LDL-C – Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol

HDL-C – High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol

CVD – cardiovascular disease