Video:Risk Factors of Thyroid Disease
with Dr. Mary Ann BlockSo many various factors can affect your risk of contracting Thyroid Disease. In this health video from About.com, learn about the major factors to find out if you're at risk.See Transcript
Transcript:Risk Factors of Thyroid Disease
Hi, I'm Dr. Mary Ann Block, Physician, Author and Medical Director of The Block Center in Dallas/Fort Worth, here for About.com. There are many different factors that can contribute to developing thyroid disease or thyroid problems. In this video, I'll take a look at some of those key factors.
Gender and Age are Factors in Thyroid Disease
First of all, your gender plays a big role. Women have a bigger risk of developing thyroid disease than men. Anywhere from 6 to 8 times more likely.
Secondly, your age. Both men and women 50 years or older have a greater risk of developing a problem with the thyroid.
Family History is a Risk Factor of Thyroid Disease
Family history is another risk factor. If you have a family history of thyroid problems or diseases, you are more likely to have problems yourself. The risk is a bit higher if a first-degree female relative has thyroid disease - like a mother or sister.
Pregnancy is a Risk Factor
The risk of developing thyroid disease also increases slightly during pregnancy and in the post-partum period, the first year after giving birth.
Major Life Events Can Cause Thyroid Disease
Having major stress, due to, for example life-changing events such as death of a loved one, or a car accident - is also considered an environmental factor for thyroid disease.
Smoking Can Cause Thyroid Disease
And if you are or were a smoker, you also have an increased risk of developing thyroid disease. That's because cigarettes contain thiocyanate, a chemical that affects the thyroid gland.
Foods That Contain Goitrogens Can Cause Thyroid Disease
Certain foods can also contribute to developing a problem with the thyroid. Certain foods naturally contain chemicals, called goitrogens, that can promote your thryoid to grow. Some foods that are high in goitrogens: broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, radishes, turnips, and more.
Medical Treatments Can Cause Thyroid Disease
And then there are several medical risk factors. You are more likely to develop thyroid disease if you've had, or have: thyroid surgery, iodine deficiency, and radioactive iodine treatment or iodine intake, among other other medical treatments and drugs.
For more on thyroid functions, diseases and treatments, visit health.about.com. Thanks for watching!
