Thyroid Function: A Target for Endocrine Disruptors, Air Pollution and Radiofrequencies

Area of Science:

• Environmental health
• Endocrinology
• Pediatric oncology

Background:

• Thyroid diseases and cancers are increasing globally in children and adults.
• Rising incidence parallels increased diagnostic and treatment costs.
• Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to thyroid dysfunction and malignancy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the impact of environmental toxins on thyroid health.
• To highlight the mechanisms by which pollutants damage thyroid function and promote cancer.
• To emphasize the need for primary prevention, especially for children.

Main Methods:

• Review of experimental and epidemiological observations.
• Analysis of pollutant pathways and bio-accumulation.
• Investigation of molecular and cellular mechanisms of thyroid damage.

Main Results:

• Environmental toxins (air pollutants, endocrine disruptors, EMFs) impair thyroid function and worsen thyroid cancer.
• Pollutants act via common pathways, with combined and trans-generational effects.
• Mechanisms include interference with hormone synthesis, transport, metabolism, receptor binding, gene expression, and autoimmunity.

Conclusions:

• Environmental pollutants are a significant, underestimated factor in thyroid disease and cancer.
• Thyroid hormones are crucial for metabolic homeostasis and development, making them vulnerable targets.
• Urgent primary prevention strategies are essential to mitigate risks, particularly for children.