Hypothyroidism Risk Factors

What are the risk factors for hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism can strike anyone at any age, but is most common among women over the age of 50. The risk of getting it increases with age. There are other risk factors and you are at greater risk if any of the following applies to you:

-a close relative with autoimmune disease

-exposure to radioactive iodine or anti-thyroid medicine

-radiation therapy on the neck and/or upper chest

-thyroid surgery