The thyroid gland is sensitive to various environmental and chemical exposures. Toxic substances such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), pesticides, and radiation can disrupt normal thyroid function. These disruptions can manifest as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, sometimes necessitating thyroidectomy. Moreover, exposure to goitrogens, substances that interfere with thyroid hormone production, can lead to goiter formation, often treated by surgical removal of the gland.
