Risk factors associated with the prevalence of thyroid nodules in adults in Northeast China: a cross-sectional population-based study

OBJECTIVES: This study examined the association between anthropometric measurements, lifestyle factors and the prevalence of thyroid nodules among adults in Northeast China. DESIGN: We employed a cross-sectional approach involving a questionnaire survey, which focused on participants’ living habits, and a physical examination that included anthropometry and ultrasound imaging. SETTING: The data were procured during multiple trips by medical teams from the first hospital of China Medical University to towns in Northeast China. PARTICIPANTS: Of the 1092 participants, 489 did not have thyroid nodules (mean age: 54.02±11.49 years; 297 females (60.7%)), 99 had single thyroid nodules (mean age: 58.19±10.77 years; 59 females (59.6%)) and 504 had multiple thyroid nodules (mean age: 60.05±10.68 years; 394 females (78.2%)). Inclusion criteria mandated participants be over 20 years old without other medical conditions. We excluded individuals who had undergone surgical resection for thyroid nodules. RESULTS: The prevalence of thyroid nodules was significantly associated with being female (OR 2.569, 95% CI 1.937 to 3.405, p<0.001) and increased age (OR 1.054, 95% CI 1.041 to 1.066, p<0.001). This association was more pronounced in those with multiple thyroid nodules. For males under 60, non-smoking was inversely correlated with the prevalence of multiple thyroid nodules (OR 0.321, 95%CI 0.149 to 0.69, p<0.05). For females under 60, diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was significantly linked with the prevalence of thyroid nodules (OR 0.978, 95% CI 2.614 to 2.705, p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Besides gender and age, the prevalence of thyroid nodules in Northeast China correlates with smoking habits and DBP.