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Doctors are still not entirely sure why some people develop Graves’ disease and others don’t. But they do know that genetics and environmental factors both play a role. The following can contribute to having Graves’ disease:
Women are 7-8 times more likely to develop Graves’ disease than men.
Graves’ usually occurs in people who are between the ages of 30 and 50, but it can develop at any time.
Graves’ disease can be passed down through families. So, if an immediate family member, like your mom or dad, has Graves’ disease, chances are greater that you will develop it too.
There are certain genes that may be linked to the development of Graves’ disease, but only some have been identified.
Certain medicines that affect iodine levels are known to increase a person’s chances of developing Graves’ disease.
People with unstable iodine levels––meaning if they have too much or too little––are more likely to develop Graves’ disease.
People with medical conditions, like type 1 diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, can have an
increased risk of developing Graves’ disease.
If you have Graves’ disease, you are at a higher risk for developing a separate eye condition called Thyroid Eye Disease (TED). Learn the risk factors for TED and figure out your potential risk.