Most of us have heard of hypothyroidism, a condition in which the body is unable to produce sufficient thyroid hormones. But what many people may not know is that it is closely linked with a low count of red blood cells, or anemia. In India, nearly 42% of people with hypothyroidism suffer from anemia.

Understanding the interconnected nature of the two conditions can help people dealing with these conditions manage them better.

Thyroid and Blood Count: Understand the Connection

Around 42 million people in India are affected by thyroid diseases, with hypothyroidism being the most common. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped organ located in the neck, does not produce sufficient thyroid hormones. These hormones are vital for regulating metabolism, energy levels, body weight and temperature, and other crucial functions. Thus, those with hypothyroidism could experience a range of symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, hair thinning, mood changes, and difficulty coping with cold weather.

But how is this hormonal imbalance linked to anemia? The thyroid gland plays a role in the production of red blood cells; when our thyroid hormone levels drop, the creation of red blood cells slows down. Low thyroid function can also interfere with iron absorption, a crucial nutrient needed to support the formation of healthy red blood cells. Different types of anemia are, therefore, observed in people with thyroid abnormalities, with iron deficiency anemia being the most common type.

Thyroid diseases like hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis could lead to vitamin deficiencies, including B12, which further impacts red blood cell production, increasing the feeling of exhaustion and fatigue. Colder months often intensify these issues. During winter, our bodies naturally require more thyroid hormones to generate heat and maintain body temperature. This increased demand can worsen common symptoms, making it harder to cope with weight gain, fatigue, and even depression. For many, winter brings about a subtle decline in energy levels, which might be overlooked as simply a seasonal change. However, for those dealing with hypothyroidism and anemia, this seasonal shift can amplify existing health challenges.

Recognizing the Risk

Research indicates that women are three times more likely to develop hypothyroidism than men. In fact, the incidence of anemia among women aged 15-49 years has been steadily increasing in India—rising from 53% in 2015-2016 to 57% in 2019-2021. These numbers highlight the need for more awareness to enable early intervention.

For those in high-risk groups—such as pregnant women, the elderly, people with autoimmune diseases like Celiac or Crohn’s disease, or those with chronic illnesses like diabetes and kidney disease—the importance of regular screening cannot be overstated.

Early Detection: The First Step Towards Better Care

Hypothyroidism and anemia often go undiagnosed simply because their symptoms may be mistaken for other conditions. But Dr. Rohita Shetty, Medical Affairs Head, Abbott India, emphasizes the necessity for early detection. "Hypothyroidism and anemia are significant health concerns in India, but they can be effectively managed with timely diagnosis and consistent treatment. Educating more people about the linkage between these two conditions and encouraging those with symptoms to seek early medical advice is key. For example, if you notice a family member feels cold even in the summer or a friend often complains about never-ending fatigue, encourage them to see a doctor and get tested,” she advises.

Dr. Lakshmi Nalini Kopalle, Consultant Endocrinologist, Fernandez Hospital, Hyderabad, points out that anemia has been increasingly prevalent in India, especially among women. "The burden of both hypothyroidism and anemia is on the rise. It’s extremely important for people to understand the connection between these two conditions, as it will aid in diagnosis and ensure appropriate advice and treatment."

Disclaimer: The information mentioned in this document is only suggestive /for patient education and shall not be considered as a substitute for doctor’s advice or recommendations from Abbott. Please consult your doctor for more information.