Background: Thyroid disorders are a prevalent health issue worldwide, affecting a significant proportion of the population. By assessing the level of understanding among patients attending the outpatient department of Civil Hospital Jogindernagar, Himachal Pradesh, this research article aims to identify knowledge gaps and misconceptions surrounding thyroid disorders in the local population. Material and Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted between January 2023- April 2023 among the patients attending civil hospital Jogindernagar, Himachal Pradesh and selected by convenience sampling technique. Data was collected through face-to-face interview using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed using epi info v7 software using appropriate statistical tests. Results: A total of 400 respondents took part in the study, with 240 (60%) coming from rural areas and 160 (40%) from urban areas. The majority's participants included 388 (97%) Hindus, 262 (65.5%) males, 171 (42.75 percent) people in their 18 to 30s, 151 (37.75%) graduates, 262 (65.5%) working people and 237 (59.25 percent) married people. In the current study, 92 (23%) study participants had very excellent awareness of thyroid disorders (24-30 marks), 189 (47.25%) had good awareness (18-23 marks), 94 (23.5%) had fair awareness (12-17 points) and 25 (6.25%) had poor awareness (<12 marks). Conclusion: In conclusion, a significant proportion of participants demonstrated good awareness levels, there is still room for improvement, particularly among those with fair to poor awareness. Targeted educational interventions and awareness campaigns can bridge the knowledge gaps and empower patients to actively engage in their healthcare.
Thakur et al. (2023) studied this question.