Evaluating the association between pulse wave velocity, augmentation index, serum TSH levels, and the prevalence of thyroid nodules in a Persian adult cohort: a cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background: The specific link between thyroid nodules and vascular aging remains less explored. This gap underscores the necessity for further investigation to deepen our understanding of how thyroid health intersects with vascular aging and cardiovascular risks.

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted within the Persian organizational cohort study in Mashhad, Iran, comprising 2,857 participants. The association between pulse wave velocity (PWV), augmentation index (AIx), serum TSH levels, and the prevalence of thyroid nodules was assessed.

Results: In a cohort of 2,857 participants, a critical correlation was found between the presence of thyroid nodules and changes in cardiovascular indices, with significant relationships observed between nodular characteristics and both AIx and PWV. TSH levels were correlated with both the augmentation index (R = 0.072; p < 0.01) and PWV (R = -0.070; p < 0.01). Both AIx and PWV were significantly higher in the presence of thyroid nodules (28.76 vs. 26.80, p < 0.01) and (7.25 vs. 7.07, p < 0.01), respectively.

Conclusion: This study found no significant correlation between TSH levels or thyroid volume and AIx or PWV. However, AIx and PWV were significantly higher in the presence of thyroid nodules, indicating their potential as important indicators of cardiovascular risk.