Design and implementation of a national quality registry of thyroid cancer in Iran: study protocol.

ABSTRACT

Purpose: Thyroid cancer is recognized as the predominant form of endocrine cancer. The likelihood of cancer recurrence and the development of distant metastases varies depending on the cancer's pathology and stage. Iran currently lacks country-specific data on thyroid cancer, which can potentially result in clinicians deviating from the optimal treatment. The primary objectives of establishing such a registry are to determine the incidence, identify risk factors, and evaluate treatment outcomes for thyroid cancer within the Iranian population. Ultimately, the overarching goal of this protocol study is to reduce mortality and morbidity rates among thyroid cancer patients by implementing appropriate interventions based on the findings derived from this registration system. Methods: The study will enroll all individuals aged 18 years and older who have received a diagnosis of primary thyroid carcinoma based on pathology criteria. Data will be collected from various thyroid clinic centers. The participating centers include the Endocrinology Clinic at Shariati Hospital, the Thyroid Clinic in the Nuclear Medicine Center at Shariati Hospital, as well as pathology and nuclear medicine centers in Kerman and Bushehr. Patient records comprise information on outpatient visits to the clinic. Conclusion: The registry aims to enhance treatment approaches and follow-up protocols while serving as a foundation for conducting clinical, epidemiological, and basic science studies based on robust evidence-based data.