Thyroid cancer is a disease caused by malignant tumors in the thyroid gland, which produces essential hormones that regulate metabolism and energy balance. Although relatively rare, early diagnosis and treatment result in high success rates.
Symptoms:
Lump or swelling in the neck
Neck pain or tightness
Hoarseness or voice changes
Difficulty swallowing
Shortness of breath or pressure in the throat
Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck
Risk Factors:
Genetics – Family history of thyroid cancer
Radiation exposure – Especially childhood exposure to the head/neck region
Gender and age – More common in women, typically between 30–50 years
Thyroid nodules – Some nodules may become malignant
Iodine imbalance – Both deficiency and excess can contribute
Types of Thyroid Cancer:
Papillary – Most common, generally good prognosis
Follicular – Typically occurs in older adults
Medullary – Rare, may be inherited
Anaplastic – Very aggressive and fast-growing
Treatment:
Surgery (Thyroidectomy) – Removal of all or part of the thyroid; main treatment
Non-surgical options – Used in selected papillary cancers
Radioactive Iodine Therapy – Eliminates remaining thyroid tissue or cancer cells after surgery
Hormone Therapy – Replaces missing hormones and reduces recurrence risk
Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy – For advanced or aggressive cases
Follow-up – Regular blood tests, ultrasound, and imaging
