Although there are several different types of thyroid cancer, papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the most common type. It affects more women than men and is generally curable. Another form of thyroid cancer is follicular thyroid cancer (TCV), which is slightly more aggressive than PTC. It often spreads to other areas of the body, but in many cases, it is cured. Both PTC and TCV have excellent prognoses.
External radiation exposure increases the risk of developing thyroid cancer. Children who have had radiation therapy for head and neck problems and those who have been exposed to x-rays while young have an increased risk. Although diagnostic x-rays do not cause cancer, they increase the risk. While these external causes are the most common, they aren’t necessarily indicative of a higher risk. To rule out thyroid cancer, discuss your risk with your doctor.
DNA mutations have been linked to thyroid cancer. Researchers have found mutations in several genes and chromosomes. For example, some individuals with papillary thyroid cancer have mutations in the BRAF gene, RET gene, and RAS family of genes. These mutations cause thyroid cancer cells to divide unrestrictedly and de-differentiate. The good news is that these mutations do not pass on to children of affected individuals.
Most cases of this type of thyroid cancer occur in younger people. In fact, 25% of thyroid cancer cases are familial. However, the causes of thyroid cancer are still unclear. A combination of genetic conditions and certain risk factors may increase the risk of developing the disease. Research indicates that women are more likely to develop these types of cancer than men. If you suspect you may have this type of cancer, your doctor will recommend a test that detects the presence of RET proto-oncogene.
For those with small thyroid nodules, watchful waiting is an effective option. This is called active surveillance and is standard care at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York. If you are concerned about surgery, watchful waiting may be a good option. This treatment method is not always curative, but it can be a good option for many people. But there are many reasons to be hopeful for this treatment option. In addition to preventing symptoms, it can improve the quality of life for patients with thyroid cancer.
Thyroid cancer is notoriously hard to diagnose, but it is possible to get it treated. Thyroid cancer may recur in the same location or in a different part of the body. It may even spread to the carotid artery or spine. It can also spread to blood vessels and encircle them. If you suspect you have this type of cancer, your doctor will need to do a biopsy to determine the type of thyroid cancer and its stage.
Although Thyroid cancer is rare in the United States, it is still a potentially debilitating disease. It increases the risk of dying from it more in people who are obese or overweight. Other risk factors include environmental exposures to radioactive materials, such as ionizing radiation. It can even run in families. If you suspect you may have thyroid cancer, get yourself checked out today. You never know when it could happen.
