Researchers at the Centre for Brain Research (CBR), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, have uncovered a significant connection between hypothyroidism and cognitive health issues in older adults. The study, published in Brain Communications, explored how thyroid dysfunction could impact brain function, particularly in language, memory, attention, and visuospatial abilities.
The research revealed that men with hypothyroidism struggled with language, memory, and visuospatial tasks, while women with the condition showed more pronounced impairments in attention-based tasks. Interestingly, participants who received appropriate thyroid medication performed better in cognitive tests compared to those who were inadequately treated or untreated.
Hypothyroidism, which results from an under-active thyroid gland, is associated with symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and cognitive decline. The study underscores the importance of early detection and effective management of thyroid dysfunction to preserve cognitive health in ageing populations.
The research, part of the Tata Longitudinal Study of Ageing (TLSA) funded by Tata Trusts, analyzed data from 1,201 individuals aged 45 and older, without dementia, residing in Bengaluru. It found a 17.69% prevalence of hypothyroidism, with women being more significantly affected. The majority of cases were subclinical, often going unnoticed due to the lack of overt symptoms.
This study highlights the urgent need for regular thyroid screenings and early intervention to reduce cognitive decline and improve the quality of life for older adults in India.
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