Down Syndrome Awareness Month – October 18, 2025

Did you know? Thyroid conditions are more common in people with Down syndrome compared to people without Down syndrome.

Thyroid conditions, including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and Hashimoto’s disease, are more common in people with Down syndrome compared to people without Down syndrome, with hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) being the most common. About 40% of the adolescents and adults with Down syndrome we have seen at our clinic have hypothyroidism.

People with Down syndrome can develop hypothyroidism at any time of life. Many of the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism (such as dry skin, constipation, and lower heart rate) are common in people with Down syndrome even when they do not have hypothyroidism, so regular thyroid testing is recommended. Screening for hypothyroidism is done with a blood test.

Additional information is available in this article on Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism in People with Down Syndrome.