Opposing effects of PM2.5 on TSH levels: effect modification by thyroid peroxidase antibody status in a preconception cohort
-
By
-
Heze Xu
-
Yijia Liu
-
Zhijiao Wang
-
Shanwei Xing
-
Zekai Bai
-
Hang Zhen
-
Lu Ji
-
Jiapo Li
-
Chong Qiao
-
June 2, 2026
-
Objective:
To examine whether TPOAb status modifies the association between PM2.5 exposure and thyroid function in women planning pregnancy.
Key Findings:
- Significant interaction between PM2.5 exposure and TPOAb status on TSH levels (P for interaction = 0.003).
- Each 10 μg/m³ increase in PM2.5 was associated with a decrease in TSH among TPOAb-negative women (β = -0.074).
- Each 10 μg/m³ increase in PM2.5 was associated with an increase in TSH among TPOAb-positive women (β = 0.156).
- Effect modification was specific to TSH and most pronounced for the 6-month exposure window.
Interpretation:
Remove unsupported claims about susceptibility and rephrase to reflect findings.
Limitations:
- The study is limited to a specific population in Liaoning, China, which may affect generalizability.
- Potential residual confounding factors not accounted for in the analysis.
Conclusion:
Rephrase to avoid editorial interpretation and focus on findings.
