“Thyroid problems only affect older women”
While thyroid conditions are more common in women, they affect all ages and genders.
The Full Story
This is a harmful myth because it can lead to thyroid problems being missed in men, young adults, and children. While it's true that thyroid conditions are more common in women (about 5-8 times more common), men absolutely can and do develop thyroid problems.
About 1 in 5 thyroid patients are male. However, because of this misconception, men with thyroid symptoms are often not tested as quickly, leading to delayed diagnosis. Symptoms in men may also present differently or be attributed to other causes.
Thyroid problems can occur at any age, including in infants (congenital hypothyroidism), children, teenagers, and young adults. Autoimmune thyroid disease (which causes most cases of both underactive and overactive thyroid) often runs in families and can appear at any age.
The Facts
- Men account for about 20% of thyroid disease cases
- Thyroid problems can occur at any age
- Children and teenagers can develop thyroid conditions
- Thyroid disease often runs in families
- Symptoms in men are often missed or misattributed
- Congenital hypothyroidism affects about 1 in 3,000 newborns
What the Evidence Says
Male thyroid disease
Studies show that thyroid disease in men is underdiagnosed because testing is less likely to be offered to male patients with symptoms.
Age range
Autoimmune thyroid disease peaks between ages 30-50 but can occur at any age. Thyroid cancer incidence is actually increasing in younger adults.
Family history
Having a first-degree relative with thyroid disease significantly increases risk regardless of sex or age.
Your Health Matters to Us
The information on this website is designed to support, not replace, the relationship between you and your healthcare providers. Always seek the advice of your GP or other qualified health provider with any questions about your health.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, visit A&E, or call 999 immediately. We're here to help you stay informed on your health journey.
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