Global differences in thyroid autoimmunity and hypothyroidism among children with type 1 diabetes: data from the SWEET database.

AIMS: This study aims to report on the global differences in the prevalence of thyroid autoimmunity and hypothyroidism among children with T1D registered in the SWEET database and identifying the associated characteristics.

METHODS

Children aged ≤18 years registered with T1D in the SWEET database between 2012-2022, and with information on thyroid autoimmunity/disease screening, have been included in the study.

RESULTS

Among the total of children registered, 19,225 children had fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The prevalence of positive thyroid autoimmunity and hypothyroidism in the study cohort was 13.2% and 9.9% respectively. The adjusted prevalence of thyroid autoimmunity and hypothyroidism were highest in South America at 16.3%, 95% CI 13.1-20.1 and 17.1%, 95% CI 13.9-21.0 respectively. Age, gender and geographical region were identified as a predictive factor for the development of thyroid autoimmunity and hypothyroidism within the study cohort. Diabetes duration and BMI-Z scores were additional predictive factors for the development of hypothyroidism.

CONCLUSION

Future research should clarify the genetic and environmental factors underlying regional disparities in thyroid autoimmunity and disease among children with T1D. Region-specific, evidence-based screening strategies tailored to local prevalence and risk profiles are needed to optimize early detection and clinical outcomes.