Cardiovascular effects of hypothyroidism sub-clinical in postmenopausal women

Abstract

Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in various physiological functions, from energy metabolism to the development and functioning of vital systems. Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH), characterized by elevated levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) with normal thyroid hormones, has raised increasing concern due to its potential implications for cardiovascular health, especially in postmenopausal women. This study aims to analyze the usefulness of thyroid screening in postmenopausal women for the early diagnosis of subclinical hypothyroidism. Additionally, it seeks to determine the prevalence of this condition and evaluate the use of a diagnostic algorithm for timely detection, with a specific focus on associated cardiovascular effects. An exhaustive literature review was conducted using electronic databases and specialized resources. The search focused on studies published since 2019, using keywords such as "subclinical hypothyroidism," "postmenopausal women," and "cardiovascular effects." Inclusion/exclusion criteria were applied to select relevant research addressing the relationship between subclinical hypothyroidism and cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women. The review reveals a significant prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism in postmenopausal women, associated with manifestations of cardiovascular dysfunction. A clear connection is observed between subclinical hypothyroidism and the presence of dyslipidemia, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis and adverse events. Epidemiological data support the association between this condition and the higher incidence of cardiovascular diseases in postmenopausal women. Subclinical hypothyroidism is linked to cardiovascular risks in postmenopausal women, with a primary effect being atherosclerosis, emphasizing the importance of early detection and management of the lipid profile to prevent cardiovascular diseases.