Abstract
Background: Implementing a low-iodine diet prior to radioactive iodine therapy aims to deplete thyroid iodine stores, thereby enhancing the uptake of radiation by residual cancer cells. Poor compliance with this pre-treatment dietary regimen may reduce therapeutic efficacy, increase the risk of requiring repeated therapy, and elevate side effects as well as healthcare costs. This study aims to evaluate the awareness and compliance levels regarding dietary guidelines among thyroid cancer patients preparing for radioactive iodine therapy
Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 200 patients with differentiated thyroid cancer undergoing I131 therapy at Da Nang Oncology Hospital from April to September 2025.
Results: Among 200 patients analyzed, the mean age was 41.2 ± 11 years, with females accounting for 82.5%. All patients (100%) adhered to the recommended duration of a low-iodine diet; while only 55.5% correctly understood its purpose. Overall, 74% demonstrated good compliance with dietary guidelines. The number of treatment sessions was identified as a factor influencing adherence to the low-iodine diet.
Conclusion: Patients were generally aware of the required duration of the low-iodine diet before radioactive iodine therapy; however, their understanding of its purpose remained limited. Most patients demonstrated good adherence to the recommended dietary regimen prior to treatment.
Keywords: Low-iodine diet; Differentiated thyroid cancer; Radioactive iodine therapy.
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| Published | 18-08-2026 | |
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| Issue | Vol. 18 No. 5 (2026) | |
| Section | Original article | |
| DOI | 10.38103/jcmhch.18.5.11 | |
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