Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

cretinism

noun

ˈkriːtɪnɪzəm

Definition

A condition resulting from a deficiency of thyroid hormones during fetal development, leading to physical and intellectual disabilities.

Examples

Many individuals with cretinism exhibit stunted growth and cognitive impairment.
Early diagnosis and treatment of cretinism can help alleviate some of its effects.
In areas with iodine deficiency, cretinism remains a public health concern.

Meaning

Cretinism is a severe form of hypothyroidism that occurs due to incomplete development of the thyroid gland, often due to iodine deficiency during pregnancy.