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Thyroid nodules, thyroid function and dietary iodine in the Marshall islands.
T Takahashi1, K Fujimori, S L Simon
1Department of Preventive Medicine and Health Promotion, Nagaski University School of Medicine, Japan.
International Journal of Epidemiology
|September 10, 1999
Summary
Thyroid nodules are common in the Marshall Islands, potentially linked to nuclear testing fallout. Moderate iodine deficiency was also found, contributing to nodule prevalence.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Environmental Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Thyroid nodules are prevalent in the Marshall Islands population.
- This prevalence is potentially linked to radioiodine exposure from historical nuclear weapons testing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate thyroid pathology in the Marshallese population exposed to radioactive fallout.
- To assess thyroid function and iodine status in relation to nodule prevalence.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a large thyroid screening program including palpation, ultrasound, and fine needle biopsies.
- Measured thyroid function (free T3, free T4, TSH) and anti-thyroid antibodies.
- Assessed urinary iodine concentrations and dietary iodine content.
Main Results:
- Confirmed a high prevalence of thyroid nodules.
- Found no increased rate of impaired thyroid function.
- Identified moderate iodine deficiency as a potential contributing factor to thyroid nodules.
Conclusions:
- Radioiodine exposure and thyroid nodules require consideration of dietary iodine deficiency.
- Iodine deficiency may play a significant role in the observed thyroid nodule prevalence.