Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which demographic is Hashimoto's disease most commonly associated with?

1. Middle-aged to older women

2. Smokers

3. Obese individuals

4. Older men

The correct answer is: Middle-aged to older women

Hashimoto's disease, an autoimmune thyroid disorder, is most commonly associated with middle-aged to older women. Epidemiological studies consistently show a significant prevalence of this condition in women, particularly in those aged between 30 and 50 years, though it can occur at any age. Factors contributing to this demographic predilection may include hormonal influences, genetic predisposition, and immune system variations that are more pronounced in females. While other demographics can experience Hashimoto's disease, the overwhelming statistical evidence highlights that the majority of diagnosed cases occur in females, making this group the most affected. Conditions like smoking, obesity, and advanced age in men may influence overall health or contribute to other types of autoimmune diseases, but do not have the same specific association with Hashimoto's disease as the demographic of middle-aged to older women does.