Environmental and social determinants of thyroid cancer: A spatial analysis based on the Geographical Detector

Abstract

IntroductionThyroid cancer has increased sharply in China in recent years. This change may be attributable to multiple factors. The current study aimed to explore the environmental and social determinants of thyroid cancer.MethodsIncidence data from 487 cancer registries in 2016 were collected. Eight factors were considered, namely, air pollution, green space, ambient temperature, ultraviolet radiation, altitude, economic status, healthcare, and education level. A geographical detector (measured by q statistic) was used to evaluate the independent and interactive impact of the eight factors on thyroid cancer.ResultsSocial factors, especially economic status and healthcare level (q > 0.2), were most influential on thyroid cancer.Ultraviolet radiation, air pollution, and temperature had more impact on women, while green space and altitude had more influence on men. Enhanced effects were observed when two factors interacted. Spatially, economic status, healthcare, and air pollution were positively associated with thyroid cancer, while education level, green space, and altitude were negatively related to thyroid cancer.ConclusionThe socio-environmental determinants and spatial heterogeneity of thyroid cancer were observed in this study. These findings may improve our understanding of thyroid cancer epidemiology and help guide public health interventions.

Artificial night light and thyroid cancer

“…Genetics, exposure to ionizing radiation and iodine intake have been found to increase the risk[ 4 ]. There are also studies that have associated air pollution, obesity, smoking and alcohol intake to TC[ 11 , 12 ]. Recently, a study published also inculpated light pollution[ 3 ].…”