Thyroid Cancer
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck. It produces hormones that regulate heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and metabolism. Thyroid cancer occurs when cells in the thyroid develop genetic changes that cause them to grow and multiply rapidly. Most thyroid cancers are highly treatable, even when they have spread to lymph nodes. Thyroid cancer rates have been increasing, partly due to improved imaging technology detecting small cancers that might not have been found otherwise.
Common Subtypes
Key Statistics
Global Context
One of the fastest-rising cancer diagnoses; however, 5-year survival rate is 98%+ for most types.
In India
Common endocrine malignancy; papillary type predominates with excellent outcomes.
Symptoms
- A lump or nodule in the neck that can be felt
- Swelling in the neck
- Pain in the front of the neck, sometimes going to the ears
- Hoarseness or voice changes that don't go away
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty breathing
- A constant cough not due to a cold
Risk Factors
- Female gender (3x more common in women)
- Age 25-65
- Radiation exposure to head/neck (especially in childhood)
- Personal or family history of goiter
- Inherited genetic syndromes (MEN2, Familial medullary thyroid cancer)
- Iodine deficiency or excess
Treatment Options
Total Thyroidectomy
Complete surgical removal of the thyroid gland; standard treatment for most thyroid cancers.
Lobectomy
Removal of only the lobe containing the cancer; option for small, low-risk tumors.
Radioactive Iodine (I-131) Therapy
Swallowing radioactive iodine to destroy remaining thyroid tissue and cancer cells after surgery.
TSH Suppression Therapy
Taking thyroid hormone pills to suppress TSH and slow any remaining cancer growth.
Prevention & Screening
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.