Thyroid DisordersMany people are probably not familiar with thyroid disorders. They may not even be aware of any family history of thyroid disorders. There are different types of thyroid disorders that can affect men, women and children. Thyroid disorders are commonly found in women. Everyone should know their family history and have their thyroid checked regularly. A thyroid disorder is an autoimmune condition related to the thyroid gland. A thyroid disorder affects metabolic processes. About 20 million Americans have a thyroid disorder. Most of them are women: 8 out of 10 women are diagnosed with the disease (“thyroid disorders”). The thyroid is a small gland at the base of the neck. The thyroid is shaped like a butterfly. It releases hormones that provide energy to the body's cells (Shomon). The thyroid releases two hormones called T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). Hormones control rates in the body, such as how fast the heart beats and how quickly calories are burned. These activities constitute metabolism (“Publications”). The thyroid can be affected by several factors...