Relationship between Serum Levels of Selenium and Thyroid Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Hao et al., 2023 | Nutr Cancer | Meta Analysis

Citation

Hao Runhua, Yu Ping, ... Wang Shaokang. Relationship between Serum Levels of Selenium and Thyroid Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutr Cancer. 2023;75(1):14-23. doi:10.1080/01635581.2022.2115082

Abstract

Thyroid cancer is one of the most malignant tumors and a serious threat to human health. Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element that is critical for thyroid function. Since the relationship between Se and thyroid cancer remains unclear, a meta-analysis was performed to clarify the relationship. A total of five databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase and Cochrane library) were searched for case-control studies and cohort studies on serum levels of Se and thyroid cancer published up to 13 July 2022. Seven articles consisting of 10 case-control studies and comprised of 2,205 subjects met the inclusion criteria for meta-analysis. From the 10 selected studies, pooled analysis indicated that thyroid cancer patients had lower serum levels of Se than healthy controls [standardized mean difference = -1.25, 95% confidence interval = (-2.07, -0.44), P = 0.003]. Our meta-analysis supports a significant relationship between serum levels of Se and thyroid cancer.

Key Findings

Our meta-analysis supports a significant relationship between serum levels of Se and thyroid cancer.

Outcomes Measured

• Requires manual extraction

Population

MeSH Terms

• Humans
• Selenium
• Trace Elements
• Thyroid Neoplasms
• Case-Control Studies

Evidence Classification

• Level: Meta Analysis
• Publication Types: Meta-Analysis, Systematic Review, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
• Vertical: selenium-thyroid

Provenance

• PMID: 35996814
• DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2022.2115082
• PMCID: Not in PMC
• Verified: 2026-04-09 via PubMed E-utilities API

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09