Hypothyroidism is common. The prevalence of overt hypothyroidism in the general population ranges between 0.2 and 5%. And it can cause a range of complications - from heart to brain problems to problems during pregnancy. So it is important that we get the diagnosis and management of this condition right.

To find out more about this problem and what we can do about it, listen to this interview with Dr Wail Malaty who works as a physician in Houston, Texas. Wail is our BMJ Best Practice author on hypothyroidism. Competing interests: None

For more on hypothyroidism, visit BMJ Best Practice.