Thyroid Cancer
Any cancer that begins in the endocrine system may be called endocrine cancer, but the most common type, by far, is thyroid cancer. There are numerous types of thyroid cancer. Though a diagnosis of cancer is never good news, thyroid cancer is considered among the most treatable forms of the disease.
Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer
Since there are no routine screening tests for thyroid cancer, it is important to see your doctor if you notice any worrisome symptoms. These may include:
- A lump or swelling in your neck
- Pain in the front of the neck, sometimes radiating to your ears
- Changes to your voice, especially hoarseness
- Trouble swallowing
- Trouble breathing
- Chronic, consistent cough
Risk Factors for Thyroid Cancer
Three times as many women are diagnosed with thyroid cancer as men. In women, thyroid cancer is most often diagnosed in the 40s and 50s, whereas men are more typically diagnosed in their 70s.
Other risk factors for thyroid cancer include:
- A diet low in iodine
- Radiation exposure, usually from radiation therapy to the head or neck
- Personal or family history of thyroid disease or other forms of thyroid cancer
Diagnosis and Treatment of Thyroid Cancer
Though a variety of tests may be done if thyroid cancer is suspected, the disease is diagnosed with a biopsy of suspicious tissue. There are numerous ways to treat thyroid cancer; your doctor may recommend one or a combination of several. Treatments include:
