Disparities in Thyroid Screening and Medication Use in Quebec, Canada

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Public Health
• Health Disparities

Background:

• No prior studies assessed thyroid screening frequency in Canada.
• Thyroid screening and medication use may differ based on demographics and health status.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the frequency of thyroid screening and medication use in Quebec residents aged 35 and older.
• To investigate variations in screening and medication use by sex, race, income, and pre-existing health conditions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Canadian Community Health Survey data from 2011-2012.
• Analyzed thyroid screening (n=7024) and medication use (n=16,081) rates in Quebec residents.
• Examined associations with sex, age, race, immigration status, regular doctor access, and linked health conditions.

Main Results:

• 10.3% used thyroid medication; 0.4% underwent thyroid screening.
• Canadian-born and White individuals reported higher rates of use and screening.
• Racial disparities were significant, with White residents having triple the odds of screening compared to visible minorities.
• Access to a regular doctor was the strongest predictor for both medication use and screening.
• Women, despite higher thyroid disease prevalence, were not significantly more likely to be screened than men.

Conclusions:

• Significant disparities in thyroid screening and medication use exist within the Quebec population.
• Interventions targeting health systems, providers, and patients are necessary to reduce these inequities.
• Strategies include increasing physician supply, professional education, and public awareness campaigns.