Awareness of medical students at the Syrian Private University about hypothyroidism

Abstract Background and purpose of the research: Hypothyroidism is defined as a disorder in the functioning of the thyroid gland in which it does not produce enough thyroid hormone, and it can cause a number of symptoms, such as: poor ability to tolerate cold, feeling tired, constipation, depression, low heart rate, and increased Weight: This study aims to know the awareness of medical students at the Syrian Private University about the symptoms of hypothyroidism. Methods and materials: Samples were collected at the Syrian Private University through an electronic questionnaire that was distributed to the special groups of the Syrian Private University. The samples were analyzed using the SPSS program during official working hours. The sample selection method was convenience sampling. Our required sample size was 204, meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria and design. The study is cross-sectional. Results The sample included 204 students, and most of the participating students were sixth-year students, 32%. Most students answered about the skin symptoms of hypothyroidism, 93.2%. Most students answered the neurological symptoms, which revolved around depression and difficulty sleeping, 66.6%, while examining the thyroid gland. 71.1% are made through manual and radiological examination, 65.1% are diagnosed through TSH measurement, while 92.4% are treated through thyroxine. Conclusion The awareness rate was higher among sixth and fifth year students regarding symptoms associated with hypothyroidism, examination, diagnosis, and treatment, but a smaller percentage of students were aware of complications of hypothyroidism and other uncommon symptoms (60.6%/55.5%) and treatment of hypothyroidism in pregnant women (60%). \ 50%), and based on the unsatisfactory results, scientific seminars must be held to raise awareness for students of all academic years so that they are fully aware and knowledgeable of all complications of the disease and the means of diagnosis and treatment.