Abstract

The increasing incidence of thyroid cancer (TC) cannot be fully explained by overdiagnosis. Metabolic syndrome (Met S) is highly prevalent due to the modern lifestyle, which can lead to the development of tumors. This review expounds on the relationship between Met S and TC risk, prognosis and its possible biological mechanism. Met S and its components were associated with an increased risk and aggressiveness of TC, and there were gender differences in most studies. Abnormal metabolism places the body in a state of chronic inflammation for a long time, and thyroid-stimulating hormones may initiate tumorigenesis. Insulin resistance has a central role assisted by adipokines, angiotensin II, and estrogen. Together, these factors contribute to the progression of TC. Therefore, direct predictors of metabolic disorders (e.g., central obesity, insulin resistance and apolipoprotein levels) are expected to become new markers for diagnosis and prognosis. cAMP, insulin-like growth factor axis, angiotensin II, and AMPK-related signaling pathways could provide new targets for TC treatment.

Conclusion

To date, there is insufficient research on the relationship between Met S and TC risk and prognosis. Most studies suggested that Met S components increased the patient’s risk of TC with gender differences. There is a correlation between these metabolic factors and PTC aggressiveness, but the prognostic relationship is unclear. Abnormal metabolism keeps the body in a state of inflammation for a long time. TSH may trigger neoplastic transformation. Insulin resistance is the core component, supplemented by adipokines, Ang II, and estrogen. All of them together drive the development of TC. cAMP, IGF axis, Ang II, and AMPK-related signaling pathways may give new targets for TC therapy. Indicators directly reflecting the metabolism are expected to become new diagnostic markers. Hence, weight management and a healthy diet can perfect body metabolism, reduce TC risk, and ameliorate prognosis.