In 2023, approximately 44,000 Americans received a diagnosis of thyroid cancer. While not as prevalent as other types of cancer, such as breast, prostate, lung, or colon cancer, thyroid cancer can still pose a serious threat to health.
Let’s delve into the significance of the thyroid gland, the risk factors associated with thyroid cancer, and the vital signs and symptoms to watch out for.
Understanding the Thyroid’s Role
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. It produces hormones that help regulate metabolism, heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature.
Despite its size, the thyroid plays a crucial role in maintaining our bodily functions.
Identifying Risk Factors
Several factors contribute to the development of thyroid cancer. Consult your healthcare provider if you exhibit at least four of the following risk factors:
• Gender: Women are three times more susceptible to thyroid cancer than men.
• Age: While thyroid cancer can affect individuals of all ages, it is commonly diagnosed in the 45-64 age group.
• Race: White and Asian populations have a higher risk of developing thyroid cancer.
• Family history: Individuals with a family history of thyroid disorders or cancer are more prone to the disease.
• History of other cancers: Prior cancer diagnoses, especially breast or ovarian cancer, increase the risk of thyroid cancer.
• Radiation exposure: Moderate exposure to radiation, particularly in childhood, raises the risk of thyroid cancer.
• High or low iodine levels: Imbalances in iodine levels can contribute to thyroid cancer risk.
• Being overweight: Individuals with a high BMI face an elevated risk of various cancers, including thyroid cancer.
While factors like age, race, and family history are beyond one’s control, adopting a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and weight management can help mitigate the risk of cancer.
Spotting Symptoms
Thyroid cancer progresses slowly, often making symptoms less apparent. Common signs to watch for include:
• A lump in the neck
• Swollen neck lymph nodes
• Neck and throat pain
• Hoarseness or vocal changes
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Persistent cough
If any of these symptoms persist for over two weeks, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider promptly for evaluation and next steps.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Unlike breast or prostate cancer, there are no specific screening recommendations for thyroid cancer based on age. However, regular physical exams can include a thyroid check for abnormalities.
If abnormalities are found, blood tests, ultrasounds, and CT scans may be ordered to further assess the thyroid. A biopsy is a definitive test for diagnosing thyroid cancer.
Early detection significantly increases survival rates for thyroid cancer. Treatment usually involves surgical removal of the tumor, radioactive iodine therapy, and hormone therapy to maintain thyroid function.
Promoting Equity in Care
While thyroid cancer is more frequently diagnosed in white individuals, people of color are often diagnosed at later stages, leading to poorer outcomes. Initiatives are underway to address healthcare disparities and provide inclusive care for all populations.
Early detection plays a crucial role in improving survival rates for thyroid cancer. Discuss your risk factors with your doctor and prioritize regular thyroid check-ups as part of your annual health routine.
This content was originally featured on IBX Insights.
About Dr. Luz Ramos
Dr. Luz Ramos serves as the Medical Director of Clinical Care Transformation at Independence Blue Cross (IBX), focusing on population health management and enhancing healthcare cost and quality through value-based programs. With 18 years of experience in Geriatrics and clinical quality oversight, Dr. Ramos is dedicated to advancing whole-person health and improving healthcare delivery and provider reimbursement across networks.