On this page: - What is hypothyroidism? - What is the thyroid? -
What causes hypothyroidism? - What are the symptoms of
hypothyroidism? - Who is likely to develop hypothyroidism? -
What happens with pregnancy and thyroid conditions? - How is
hypothyroidism diagnosed? - How is hypothyroidism treated? -
Eating, Diet, and Nutrition - Points to Remember - Hope through
Research - For More Information What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a disorder that occurs when the thyroid gland
does not make enough thyroid hormone to meet the body’s needs.
Thyroid hormone regulates metabolism—the way the body uses
energy—and affects nearly every organ in the body. Without
enough thyroid hormone, many of the body’s functions slow down.
About 4.6 percent of the U.S. population age 12 and older has
hypothyroidism.1 1Golden SH, Robinson KA, Saldanha I, Anton B,
Ladenson PW. Prevalence and incidence of endocrine and metabolic
disorders in the United States: a comprehensive review. Journal
of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism