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Hakaru Hashimoto

Hakaru Hashimoto was a Japanese physician who discovered Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland. This can lead to hypothyroidism, where the thyroid doesn't produce enough hormones, resulting in symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and sensitivity to cold. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in many parts of the world. The condition often requires lifelong management, typically with thyroid hormone replacement therapy, allowing individuals to lead normal, healthy lives. Hashimoto's work has significantly shaped our understanding of autoimmune diseases and their impact on health.