STUDY OF SERUM TSH LEVELS IN TOBACCO SMOKERS AND NON-SMOKERS

INTRODUCTION: TSH is the major regulator of the morphologic and functional states of the thyroid. All steps in the formation and release of thyroid hormones are stimulated by TSH secreted by the pituitary thyrotrophs. Cigarette smoking has multiple effects on thyroid function. These include both pro- (e.g. thyroid stimulating) and anti-thyroid actions and also actions that increase susceptibility to or exacerbation of the manifestations of Graves' disease.[ 1] The result of most of the studies have shown that smokers have higher prevalence of hyperthyroidismthan hypothyroidism. This study will contribute to the existing knowledge of the detrimental effects of tobacco smoking on thyroid function. Thus, this study may be instrumental in early detection and management of thyroid disease in smokers. AIM OF THE STUDY: To compare the serum TSH levels in smokers and non-smokers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was done on 150 (75smokers and 75 non-smokers) patients at Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Bangalore for a period of 18 months (From 1st January 2012 to 30th June 2013). Serum TSH levels were compared in the two groups. RESULTS: In this study 33.3% population had smoked for 6 to 10 years whereas 18.7% fell in the more than 20years of smoking category. (Mean+/-SD: 12.75+/-8.84). Mean TSH in smokers and non-smokers was 6.27+/-5.83 and 5.04+/-5.73 respectively. CONCLUSION: Smoking was found to be associated with high TSH levels.