Hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) may lower the risk of developing endometrial and breast cancer, according to a recent study published in the International Journal of Women’s Health.
Earlier studies showed possible links between thyroid function—including hormones like thyroxine (T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)—and cancers that affect women, such as endometrial, breast, ovarian and cervical cancer. However, it wasn’t clear whether thyroid problems actually cause changes in cancer risk.
This new research aimed to find out if there is a direct cause-and-effect relationship between thyroid function and these cancers. The researchers also looked at whether sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen might play a role in this connection.
The results showed that women with hypothyroidism had a lower risk of endometrial cancer and breast cancer. There was no evidence of a link between thyroid function and ovarian or cervical cancer.
The study also found that hypothyroidism may lower cancer risk by reducing testosterone levels in the body.
Read more about endometrial cancer causes and risk factors
However, the researchers noted some limitations to their study. The data came only from European populations, so the results may not apply to people from other ethnic backgrounds. Also, the researchers couldn’t study specific types or subtypes of these cancers because of limited data. More research is needed to confirm and expand on these results.
Overall, the study suggests that the connection between thyroid hormones and male hormones like testosterone — called the “thyroid-androgen axis” — could play an important role in the development of certain cancers. The researchers conclude that “it warrants further investigation.” Understanding this link might help doctors find new ways to prevent or treat breast and endometrial cancer.
Although this study suggests that hypothyroidism may have a protective effect against certain hormone-sensitive cancers, it is important to note that untreated or poorly managed hypothyroidism can have significant negative health impacts, so proper diagnosis and treatment are essential.
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