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Monday, February 07, 2000 Page: 6A
Millions of Americans who have ele vated cholesterol levels may actu ally
need to check their necks for an underlying condition that could be putting
them at great risk for heart disease and stroke. A new survey released by the
American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists found that fewer than half
the adults who had been diagnosed with high cholesterol knew if they had ever
been tested for thyroid disease, despite the well-documented connection
between the two conditions.
Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is the most common secondary cause of
high cholesterol after diet, according to the National Cholesterol Education
Program.
An estimated 98 million American adults have high cholesterol. More than 13
million Americans have a thyroid disorder, yet nearly half remain undiagnosed.
Why does untreated thyroid disease lead to elevated cholesterol levels? The
thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism. If the
thyroid gland produces too little hormone, metabolism can slow – having a
direct impact on the body’s ability to clear cholesterol from the bloodstream.
As a result, the risk of cholesterol being deposited in the arteries,
especially around the heart, is increased which in turn increases the risk for
heart disease.
To raise awareness of the common, yet unrecognized impact of the thyroid
gland in cholesterol regulation, the American Association of Clinical
Endocrinologists is launching a year-long public education initiative called
Take Cholesterol by the Neck.
The AACE is encouraging patients who have elevated cholesterol levels –
even if they are currently on a cholesterol-lowering therapy – to perform a
simple self-examination called the thyroid neck-check to detect an enlarged
thyroid gland (goiter) and to speak with their doctor about being tested for
thyroid disease.
To perform the neck check, an individual stands before a mirror and drinks
a glass of water while looking for signs of an enlarged or irregular thyroid
gland. For step-by-step instructions on how to perform the neck check, visit
the AACE web site at www.aace.com or send a self-addressed stamped envelope to
AACE at Grand Central Station, P.O. Box 3426, New York NY 10163.
Patients who find an enlarged thyroid gland as a result of the
self-examination may have a thyroid condition. Even the slightest thyroid
abnormality can have a serious impact on long-term cardiac health. Those
experiencing symptoms of a possible thyroid disorder or an enlargement in the
neck, should ask their physician or an endocrinologist for a simple blood test
called thyroid stimulating hormone to determine if the gland is functioning
properly. Once properly treated with thyroid replacement hormone, patients
with thyroid disease can lead normal, active lives.
Dr. Ronald I. Harris
Diabetes Clinical Program Chair
Geisinger Health System
Wilkes-Barre