Frequent Occurrence of Faulty Practices, Misconceptions and Lack of Knowledge among Hypothyroid Patients
Introduction: Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder with a reported prevalence of 4%-10%. Previous studies have reported significant gaps in the basic knowledge about the condition in hypothyroid patients. It has also been observed that faulty practices prevail among these patients. Ther...
| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
JCDR Research and Publications Private Limited
2017-07-01
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| Series: | Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://jcdr.net/articles/PDF/10196/29470_CE[Ra]_F(Sh)_PF1(RU_VT)_PFA(SS)_PF2(NE_SS).pdf |
| Summary: | Introduction: Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder
with a reported prevalence of 4%-10%. Previous studies have
reported significant gaps in the basic knowledge about the
condition in hypothyroid patients. It has also been observed that
faulty practices prevail among these patients. There is paucity
of data on the assessment of knowledge and practices among
treated hypothyroid patients.
Aim: The present study was aims to assess the knowledge,
awareness and practices in treated hypothyroid patients.
Materials and Methods: The current cross-sectional study
was conducted on 244 consecutive hypothyroid patients,
attending the Endocrinology Outpatient Department (OPD).
The patients were asked to fill a structured questionnaire
pertaining to knowledge and practices about various aspects
of hypothyroidism.
Results: Only two-thirds of the participants correctly identified
thyroid as a gland and 41% were aware that hypothyroidism is
caused due to decreased function of the thyroid gland. The most
common symptom attributed to hypothyroidism was weight gain
(139 responses). Nearly 45% of the patients believed alternative
forms of medicine can be used for treatment of hypothyroidism.
It was believed by 42% of the patients that hypothyroidism runs
in the family and about 10% believed it could be transferred
to their spouses. Only 33% of the patients gave one hour gap
between levothyroxine and food intake.
Conclusion: The study demonstrates the lack of knowledge
about basic aspects of hypothyroidism among the patients. In
addition, there is a high prevalence of misconceptions and faulty
practices. The study highlights the need for comprehensive
patient education to improve therapeutic outcomes and
compliance among hypothyroid patients. |
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| ISSN: | 2249-782X 0973-709X |