​Frequent consumption of nitrite-containing foods may increase the risk of developing thyroid cancer.

This meta-analysis evaluated the association between high dietary exposure to nitrates and nitrites and the odds of developing thyroid abnormalities, such as hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and thyroid carcinoma. Researchers conducted a meticulous meta-analysis on data extracted from relevant studies on the subject.

Researchers observed a significant elevation in likelihood of developing thyroid cancer among individuals who regularly consumed foods rich in nitrites. In contrast, no association was found between high dietary ingestion of foods packed with nitrates and hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid cancer risk. The results of this study show that generous intake of nitrite-containing foods might be a risk factor for thyroid cancer.