Diabetes and Thyroid Disease

Both diabetes and thyroid disease are considered endocrine (hormonal) disorders. The presence of thyroid problems makes it even harder for people with diabetes to control their blood glucose levels.

University of Chicago endocrinologists understand the interaction between these two conditions, and can help individuals jointly manage their diabetes and thyroid disease. Dr. Roy E. Weiss, Section Chief of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, is recognized worldwide as an authority on diseases of the thyroid and pituitary glands. At the University of Chicago Medical Center, Dr. Weiss teams with Dr. Samuel Refetoff to lead one of the world's largest referral centers for genetic thyroid disease.

Did you know?

People with diabetes have a higher-than-average risk of also having thyroid disorders.  Among females, the incidence is particularly high:  up to 30% of women with type 1 diabetes also have thyroid disease.

Learn more:

• Thyroid Disease and Diabetes Patient Education Sheet (pdf)
• Diabetes Spectrum - Thyroid Disease and Diabetes