SCIENCE & INNOVATION

THYROID NODULES: GLOBAL, ECONOMIC AND PERSONAL BURDEN

24.02.2024 International Scientific Journal "Science and Innovation". Series D. Volume 3 Issue 2

Khalimova Z.Yu., Dadakhanova М.B.

Abstract. Thyroid nodules have received attention due to changes in population surveillance systems and growing concerns about the associated financial burden on health care systems, payers, and patients. In this review, we found that prevalence rates vary widely depending on detection method and may be particularly pronounced in asymptomatic patients undergoing routine screening. Incidence rates may particularly increase in low- and middle-income countries and may decrease in higher-income countries. Over the past few decades, the evaluation and treatment of thyroid nodules has become more complex with the advent of fine-needle aspiration biopsy, specialized biomarkers, and molecular testing. However, gaps remain in risk stratification, which can lead to significant treatment costs. Some molecular tests, such as the Afirma Gene Sequencing Classifier, can result in diagnostic costs of US$17,873 while achieving only a modest reduction in the number of diagnostic lobectomies performed on patients (from 11.6% to 9.7% in one research). The out-of-pocket costs associated with treating thyroid nodules continue to result in significant financial toxicity for patients, especially for people with thyroid cancer. Additional cost-effectiveness analysis is needed to improve current treatment systems for thyroid nodules, and new clinical tools are needed to avoid unnecessary testing and treatment

Keywords: thyroid gland, nodules, formations.