People who develop hypoparathyroidism after thyroid cancer surgery may face a significantly higher risk of several long-term health complications, according to a large-scale study using national health data from South Korea.
The study, which analysed data from the National Health Insurance Service between 2006 and 2019, compared individuals treated for thyroid cancer with and without hypoparathyroidism, along with matched controls from the general population. Researchers found that those with the condition were more likely to develop non-skeletal complications over time.
Among the most notable findings were increased risks of diabetes (31% higher), high cholesterol (29%), kidney stones (61%), and cataracts (50%). High blood pressure was also more common compared to those who had thyroid cancer but did not experience hypoparathyroidism.
Further analysis revealed certain groups were more vulnerable: women had a greater likelihood of developing kidney stones, and people over the age of 50 faced a higher risk of cataracts.
Although thyroid cancer typically has a favourable prognosis, the development of hypoparathyroidism following surgery can lead to lasting health concerns that extend beyond the bones. The researchers stress the importance of long-term monitoring and targeted care for those affected, especially older adults and women.
They also called for further prospective studies to confirm these findings and to better understand the underlying mechanisms driving these complications, with the goal of improving outcomes and quality of life for those living with the condition.
Reference
Ku EJ et al. Long-term non-skeletal complications in patients with thyroid cancer and hypoparathyroidism post-total thyroidectomy. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2025; doi: 10.1210/clinem/dgaf213.
