Summary
This two-sample Mendelian randomisation study used genome-wide association study data from individuals of European ancestry to investigate causal relationships between micronutrient status and thyroid cancer risk. Analysing six micronutrients (copper, iron, zinc, calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin C), the study found no evidence of causal effects on thyroid cancer development, with odds ratios close to unity and p-values >0.05 for all nutrients except vitamin D (OR=0.89, p=0.04), suggesting micronutrient supplementation is unlikely to prevent thyroid cancer based on these genetic estimates.
Regional applicability
The study used GWAS data from European ancestry populations, limiting direct generalisability to United Kingdom ethnic groups or other ancestry populations. However, the null findings on micronutrient supplementation and thyroid cancer may inform UK nutritional policy and clinical guidance, though replication in diverse populations and mechanistic studies would strengthen confidence in these results.
Key measures
Odds ratios for thyroid cancer risk per unit increase in genetically-determined circulating micronutrient levels (copper, iron, zinc, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin C); heterogeneity and pleiotropy testing
Outcomes reported
The study examined whether genetic variants influencing circulating levels of copper, iron, zinc, calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin C have a causal effect on thyroid cancer risk using two-sample Mendelian randomisation. No statistically significant causal associations were found between any of the six micronutrients examined and thyroid cancer risk.
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