The incidence of permanent congenital hypothyroidism: A systematic review and meta-analysis

One of the most prevalent endocrine disorders is congenital hypothyroidism (CH). The most important complication of this disorder is mental retardation. This study was carried out to evaluate CH prevalence based on newborn screening of CH in different countries through a meta-analysis study.

The researchers in this study searched the literature among PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Google Scholar, ISI Web of Sciences and Web of Knowledge, and Science Direct databases. The evaluations were carried out using a researcher-made checklist including goals and research questions. Meta-regression with the Mantel-Haenszel method was performed using a random effects model and Egger’s test (ET) and Begg’s test (BT) by the STATA software.

A total of 10875 studies were found in the initial literature search related to CH. Ultimately, based on the eligibility criteria considered in the present study, 25 studies were categorized as qualified for systematic review and meta-analysis. The estimate of the CH prevalence among the screened neonates in the studies based on the random effects model was 4.85 per 10000 [95% confidence interval (CI): 4.04- 5.66].

Due to the importance of CH related diseases especially for detection of type of hypothyroidism, it is necessary more surveillance be carried out in all countries. Based on Different studies, recognition of the most CH patients is before age 1 year so it helps to reduction the risks of developmental delay, and delayed physiological development and mental retardation.