Fact 15. Hashimoto’s can Develop at Any Age, but is Most Common in Middle-Aged Women
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis can develop at any age, from childhood through late adulthood. However, it is most commonly diagnosed in women between the ages of 40 and 60. As mentioned above, women are more likely than men to develop Hashimoto’s, and the risk increases with age.
The reason for this age-related risk is not fully understood, but it could be related to hormonal changes that occur with age. For example, the transition to menopause involves significant hormonal shifts, which may influence immune system function and increase the risk of autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s.
While middle-aged women represent the most common demographic for Hashimoto’s, it’s crucial to remember that the disease can affect individuals of all ages, including children and the elderly. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing the disease effectively and preventing complications, regardless of the age at onset. (15)
