Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Toward Thyroid Nodules in 456 Patients with Thyroid Nodules

BACKGROUND Thyroid nodules, common in adults, especially females and older individuals, are mostly asymptomatic. While the nodules are largely benign, distinguishing malignant lesions is crucial. Overdiagnosis and overtreatment pose risks. Knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) surveys can identify knowledge gaps and inform targeted education; however, no studies have explored this in Chinese patients with thyroid nodules. This study aimed to investigate the KAP toward thyroid nodules among patients with thyroid nodules. MATERIAL AND METHODS This web-based cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with thyroid nodules, using a self-administered questionnaire. RESULTS A total of 456 valid questionnaires were included. The mean knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 7.07±3.19, 26.39±3.98, and 29.16±4.65, respectively. Knowledge (OR=1.111, P=0.002), junior college (OR=1.933, P=0.035), and bachelor's degree or above (OR=2.193, P=0.015) were associated with proactive practice. Structural equation modeling showed knowledge directly influenced attitude (ß=0.244, P<0.001) and practice (ß=0.404, P<0.001). Attitude directly influenced practice (ß=-0.129, P=0.020). Occupation (ß=-0.279, P=0.038), marital status (ß=-0.752, P=0.002), thyroid nodule TIRADS classification (ß=-0.699, P=0.004), and education (ß=0.501, P<0.001) directly influenced knowledge. Average per capita income (ß=0.942, P<0.001) and education (ß=0.380, P=0.309) directly influenced attitude. Education (ß=0.457, P=0.028) directly influenced practice. CONCLUSIONS Patients with thyroid nodules have poor knowledge and unfavorable attitudes but proactive practice toward thyroid nodules. Anxiety-reducing techniques should be incorporated during education sessions, and workplace wellness programs should be explored, to promote healthy practices and early detection.