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June 2, 2016
Research | Endocrine Research, Thyroid
In a recent Environmental Health journal, Joseph G. Allen, et al. published the results of a review of data on thyroid problems and blood concentrations of four different types of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in women interviewed in 2003 and 2004.
BCDiabetes medical director, Dr. Tom Elliott discusses the impact this particular research could impact clinical care.
The recent report that women with high levels of common flame retardants in their blood may have an elevated risk for thyroid disease is of interest. It is, however, based on a low level of evidence and warrants more study before further comment is necessary or a change in clinical practice warranted. For now patients with symptoms consistent with low thyroid (hypothyroidism) such as weight gain, facial puffiness, dry skin, constipation and low energy should bring these symptoms to their doctors’ attention – their doctor may well order a blood test, TSH, which if elevated, will indicate the presence of low thyroid”.
– Dr. Tom Elliott