Thyroid Cancer Incidence Trends and Epidemiological Patterns in Saudi Arabia: A Retrospective Analysis of National Cancer Registry Data (2013–2022)

A BSTRACT Background: Thyroid cancer is the most rapidly increasing malignancy worldwide, with ionizing radiation recognized as its most established modifiable risk factor. Saudi Arabia has reported rising thyroid cancer incidence over recent decades, yet comprehensive national trend analyses remain limited.

Objectives

The objective of the study is to characterize thyroid cancer incidence trends, epidemiological patterns, and demographic distribution in Saudi Arabia between 2013 and 2022 and to contextualize findings within global radiation risk and prevention frameworks. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study analyzed secondary data from the Saudi Cancer Registry (2013–2022), supplemented by GLOBOCAN 2022 estimates and published national health statistics. Annual age-standardized incidence rates (ASR) per 100,000 population were calculated using the World Standard Population. Data were analyzed by year, sex, age group, administrative region, histological subtype, and clinical stage at diagnosis. Descriptive statistics characterized incidence patterns; temporal trends were described narratively. Comparative analysis benchmarked Saudi rates against regional and global figures.