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Minimal Invasive Resection of Large Retrosternal Thyroid Goiter
Published on: September 20, 2024
Relationship between goiter and gender: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Ramin Malboosbaf1, Farhad Hosseinpanah, Mehdi Mojarrad
1Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 19395-4763, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran.
Endocrine
|December 15, 2012
Summary
Goiter, a thyroid enlargement, is more common in females than males, particularly in iodine-deficient regions and after puberty. This gender disparity is less pronounced in areas with long-term iodine sufficiency.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Inconsistent findings exist regarding gender's impact on goiter prevalence.
- Understanding this relationship is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze the effect of gender on goiter prevalence.
- To investigate variations across different age groups and iodine statuses.
Main Methods:
- Systematic search of multiple databases (Medline, Embase, Cochrane, Persian) from 1950-2012.
- Inclusion of studies assessing goiter in both genders via palpation or ultrasonography.
- Pooled prevalence proportions calculated using a quality effects model.
Main Results:
- 143 studies (606,714 participants) were included.
- Overall goiter prevalence was higher in females (0.54) than males (0.46).
- Gender difference was most prominent in iodine-deficient areas, with Grade 2 goiter, and after puberty (age 15+).
Conclusions:
- Goiter is significantly more frequent in females.
- The gender disparity in goiter prevalence is influenced by iodine status and age.
- Interventions may need to consider gender-specific approaches, especially in vulnerable populations.
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