Volcanic Environments Linked to Thyroid Disruption: New Review Highlights Role of Arsenic, Mercury, and Cobalt
- July 7th, 2025
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Ponta Delgada, Azores – July 7, 2025 — A comprehensive review published in Science of the Total Environment by researchers from the University of the Azores presents compelling evidence that chronic exposure to volcanic environments may significantly increase the risk of thyroid dysfunction, including cancer and hypothyroidism. The study focuses on the endocrine-disrupting effects of three key elements—arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), and cobalt (Co)—commonly found in volcanically active regions.
The review analyzed 125 peer-reviewed studies spanning from 1955 to 2025, drawing from databases including Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus. It found that populations in volcanic regions—particularly in Iceland, Hawaii, and Sicily—experience significantly higher rates of thyroid cancer and hypothyroidism compared to non-volcanic areas. However, the authors emphasize that data on non-eruptive volcanic zones remains scarce, representing a critical knowledge gap.
The study details how these elements act as endocrine disruptors. Arsenic and mercury, both highly toxic, interfere with thyroid hormone synthesis and receptor function, while cobalt, though essential in small amounts, can inhibit iodine uptake and damage thyroid cells when present in excess. These disruptions can lead to a range of thyroid pathologies, from autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis to aggressive forms of thyroid cancer.
Importantly, the review also identifies a lack of mechanistic studies and epidemiological data on the effects of these elements in non-eruptive volcanic areas—regions that may pose a more hazardous, long-term threat due to continuous low-level exposure to these elements.
About the Research Team
The authors of the review are from the cE3c-Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, within the Azorean Biodiversity Group and the CHANGE – Global Change and Sustainability Institute at the University of the Azores and from the Institute of Volcanology and Risks Assessment at the University of the Azores.
Citation:
Coelho, N.M.P., Bernardo, F., Rodrigues, A.S., & Garcia, P. (2025). Volcanic environments and thyroid disruption – A review focused on As, Hg, and Co. Science of the Total Environment, 993, 180018.
For more details, access the study here: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.180018