Hypothyroidism is at least twice as common in women as it is in men. Although hypothyroidism is most common in women who are middle-aged or older, the disease can occur at any age. Treatment within the first few months of life can prevent mental retardation and physical abnormalities. Older children who develop hypothyroidism suddenly stop growing. Factors that increase a person's risk of developing hypothyroidism include age, weight, and medical history.
Obesity also increases risk.
A family history of thyroid problems or a personal history of high cholesterol levels or such autoimmune diseases as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis , or diabetes can make an individual more susceptible to hypothyroidism. In this disease, the immune system fails to recognize that the thyroid gland is part of the body's own tissue and attacks it as if it were a foreign body. The attack by the immune system impairs thyroid function and sometimes destroys the gland. Removal of the thyroid gland because of cancer or other thyroid disorders can result in hypothyroidism. Viruses and bacteria.