Fact 7: Hashimoto’s Disease – Genetic or Environmental?
The exact cause of Hashimoto’s disease is not entirely understood, but it’s believed to be a blend of genetic and environmental factors. The disease is more common in individuals who have a family history of Hashimoto’s or other autoimmune disorders, indicating a strong genetic predisposition.
However, genes alone can’t explain the disease occurrence. Environmental factors, such as exposure to radiation, certain viruses, or high iodine levels, might trigger the onset in people with a genetic predisposition. Hence, Hashimoto’s disease represents a complex interplay between genes and environment.
Another notable point is the higher prevalence of Hashimoto’s in women. Women are 7-15 times more likely to develop the disease than men. This gender difference suggests a role of sex hormones, particularly estrogen, but the precise mechanisms are still being researched. (7)
