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Effect of passive smoking on thyroid function in infants
A Gasparoni1, M Autelli, M F Ravagni-Probizer
1Research Laboratories (Pediatric Oncohaematology and Neonatal Immunology, Policlinico San Matteo, IRCCS, Pavia, Italy.
European Journal of Endocrinology
|May 13, 1998
Summary
Passive smoking significantly increases thyroglobulin (TG) and thiocyanate levels in infants born to smoking parents. These elevated thyroid function markers persist for at least one year, indicating long-term effects of secondhand smoke exposure.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Environmental Health
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Secondhand smoke exposure is a significant environmental health concern.
- Infant thyroid function is crucial for development and can be influenced by environmental factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of parental passive smoking on infant thyroid function.
- To assess thyroid-related markers, including thyroglobulin (TG) and thiocyanate, in infants exposed to varying levels of secondhand smoke.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study involving three groups of infants based on parental smoking status (non-smokers, father-smoker, both parents smokers).
- Measurement of cord serum and 1-year serum concentrations of thyroid hormones (T3, fT3, T4, fT4, TSH, TBG), thyroglobulin (TG), and thiocyanate.
- Statistical analysis to compare marker levels across the groups.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in T3, fT3, T4, fT4, TSH, or TBG levels were found among the groups.
- Significantly higher median concentrations of thyroglobulin (TG) and thiocyanate were observed at birth and at 1 year in infants of smoking parents compared to non-smoking parents.
- Elevated TG and thiocyanate levels persisted at 1 year in infants exposed to passive smoke.
Conclusions:
- Infants exposed to passive smoking, particularly from both parents, exhibit elevated thyroglobulin and thiocyanate levels.
- These changes in thyroid function markers suggest a potential direct effect of thiocyanate on the thyroid gland.
- The observed alterations in thyroid function can persist for at least one year with continued exposure to parental passive smoking.