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A risk factor is something that increases your likelihood of getting a disease or condition.
It is possible to develop hyperthyroidism with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of developing hyperthyroidism. If you have a number of risk factors, ask your healthcare provider what you can do to reduce your risk.
Risk factors for hyperthyroidism include:
Medical Conditions
There are two medical conditions that may increase your risk of hyperthyroidism:
Age
Risk is greatest between the ages of 30 and 40 years. Hyperthyrodism rarely occurs before age 10.
Gender
Women are more likely than men to develop hyperthyroidism by a ratio of 7:1.
Genetic Factors
A family history of Graves’ disease or other forms of hyperthyroidism increases your risk.
Ethnic Background
People of Japanese ancestry appear to be at greater risk of hyperthyroidism. This may be attributed to a diet high in saltwater fish, which are rich sources of iodine.
Other
Supplementating iodine to a previously iodine-deficient diet may precipitate hyperthyroidism.
References:
American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists website. Available at: http://www.aace.com/ .
American Women’s Medical Association website. Available at: http://www.amwa-doc.org .
Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine. 14th ed. McGraw Hill; 2001.
Pearce EN. Diagnosis and management of thyrotoxicosis. Brit Med J. 2006;332:1369-1373.
Last reviewed November 2008 by David Juan, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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