It is possible to develop hypothyroidism with or without the risk factors listed below. Your chances of developing hypothyroidism increase depending on the number of risk factors you have. If you have a number of risk factors, ask your doctor what you can do to reduce your risk.

Medical Conditions

There are several medical conditions known to increase your risk of hypothyroidism. These include:

Pregnancy—Less than 10% of women develop postpartum thyroiditis. This condition is best described as hyperthyroidism that is followed by hypothyroidism. These women usually get better without treatment. Treatment is sometimes needed if this happens again. This condition can also happen with other causes of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
A history of other autoimmune diseases, such as:
Having received radiation to the thyroid tissue or the neck or chest
Having had thyroid surgery in the past
Injury
Pituitary gland disorders

Age

Your risk of hypothyroidism increases with age, especially after age 65 years.

Gender

Women are more likely to develop the condition than men.

Genetic factors

If any of your family members have hypothyroidism, you are at greater risk.

Race/Ethnicity

Hypothyroidism occurs more often in Caucasians than in African Americans.

References:

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/hypothyroidism. Updated August 2016. Accessed February 20, 2017.

Hypothyroidism in adults. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at: http://www.dynamed.... Updated July 12, 2016. Accessed February 20, 2017.

Last reviewed February 2017 by James P. Cornell, MD
Last Updated: 3/15/2015

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