A study from the University of Michigan has uncovered a significant link between thyroid hormone treatment intensity and the risk of heart-related deaths.
This research, focusing on over 705,000 U.S. veterans receiving thyroid hormone therapy, sheds light on how thyroid hormone levels can influence heart health.
The study found that patients on thyroid hormone therapy, particularly those with either excessively low (below 0.1 mIU/L) or high (above 20 mIU/L) thyrotropin levels, had an increased risk of heart-related death compared to those with normal thyroid function.
Older patients were identified as being particularly vulnerable to these adverse outcomes, suggesting a need for targeted interventions in this demographic.
The study did not include patients with a history of thyroid cancer or those prescribed lithium or amiodarone, as these factors can significantly affect thyroid function.
The research suggests that how thyroid hormone therapy is managed could be a key factor in controlling heart disease risk.
Maintaining euthyroidism, which is the state of having normal thyroid function, appears crucial in reducing the risk of heart disease and mortality in patients undergoing thyroid hormone treatment.
This study highlights the importance of careful monitoring and management of thyroid hormone levels, especially in older patients.
Healthcare providers should be vigilant in ensuring thyroid hormone treatment is balanced to avoid the risks associated with both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.
The research underscores the need for personalized treatment strategies in managing thyroid hormone therapy.
By maintaining appropriate thyrotropin levels, it may be possible to reduce the risk of heart disease and improve the overall health outcomes of patients requiring thyroid hormone treatment.
If you care about health, please read studies about the benefits of low-dose lithium supplements, and what we know about egg intake and heart disease.
For more information about health, please see recent studies about potatoes and high blood pressure, and results showing 6 best breads for people with heart disease.
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