Pattern of Thyroid Diseases in Arar City, Northern Saudi Arabia

Background: Thyroid hormone acts as a vital factor of development and growth, and in adults plays a critical part in the regulation of the function and metabolism of virtually every organ system. Study objective: The objective of this study was to identify the pattern of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism in Arar, Northern Saudi Arabia and some related socio-demographic determinants. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Arar, Northern Saudi Arabia. A multistage stratified random sampling technique was used. A pre-designed online questionnaire was distributed among the targeted population and filled by participants after a brief introduction or explanation of the idea of the research to the public.  Sampled participants filled out the self-reported predesigned questionnaire to collect socioeconomic and thyroid diseases related data. Results: The study included 160 participants. The total prevalence of thyroid diseases was 36(22.5%). Of the 36 reported cases of thyroid diseases, 11(30.5%) were reported as having hyperthyroidism and 25(69.5%) were having hypothyroidism. Of the 11 patients with hyperthyroidism9 (81.8%) were males and 2(18.2%) were females. Of the 25 patients with hypothyroidism, 4(16.0%) were males and 21(84.0%) were females. Conclusion: Hypothyroidism is the prevalent form of thyroid diseases in Arar, Northern Saudi Arabia, females: male ratio was about 1:5. Knowledge of various factors influencing thyroid dysfunction can help the public to guard against these prevalent diseases. More studies should be carried out in Arar city to stress on the individual thyroid disorder. The studies should be community based with clinical and laboratory diagnosis of cases.