A review of the evidence for and against increased mortality in hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism has been linked with cardiac dysfunction, atherosclerosis, hypertension and coagulopathy, and this increased morbidity might be expected to shorten lifespan. However, the relationship between hypothyroidism and mortality is not clear, particularly regarding overt hypothyroidism. This Review discusses the literature on mortality in patients with hypothyroidism, appraises the weaknesses of existing studies and suggests new directions for research that could improve our understanding of the relationship between hypothyroidism and lifespan.