Thyroid cancer is perhaps not the most discussed cancer on the planet, but it’s becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide without anyone seeming to notice. Fortunately, in most instances, it’s also one of the more curable cancers, provided that it’s detected early.
So how do we detect it early?
That’s where it all comes down to knowing your thyroid cancer risk factors. Knowing who is at risk of getting thyroid cancer allows people to do something about it. That is, go for regular checkups, adopt changes in lifestyle, or just be informed. Some of these risks are within our control, i.e., lifestyle choices we make. Others such as our genes are beyond our control. But even then, knowing is half the battle.
Let’s take a closer examination of what thyroid cancer is, what makes a person at risk, and what you can do about it.
What is Thyroid Cancer?
Your thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the bottom of your neck. It has a big responsibility for your metabolism, body temperature, and even your energy levels. It does this by secreting hormones that regulate a lot of your body’s processes.
Thyroid cancer occurs when cancer cells in the thyroid begin to grow out of control. These abnormal cells may develop into a lump or nodule and have the potential to spread to the other parts of your body if not treated.
What are the Various Types of Thyroid Cancer?
There is not only one type of thyroid cancer. These are the major types:
- Papillary Thyroid Cancer (PTC) is the most prevalent form (approximately 80% of cases). It develops slowly and is frequently curable.
- Follicular Thyroid Cancer (FTC) is not as common as papillary, yet curable if detected early.
- Medullary Thyroid Cancer (MTC) is a less common type that may be hereditary.
- Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer (ATC) is the least common and most virulent. It typically occurs in older adults.
What are the Common Thyroid Cancer Risk Factors?
Let’s break down the most frequent risk factors that might increase a person’s risk of getting thyroid cancer.
Gender and Age
Women are three times more likely than men to develop thyroid cancer. Nobody knows exactly why, but hormonal involvement may be a clue.
Also, thyroid cancer typically presents between the ages of 30 and 60, although it can occur at any age.
Genetic and Hereditary Factors
If someone in your family, especially a parent or sibling has had thyroid cancer, your risk of getting thyroid cancer might be higher.
Certain genetic syndromes, such as Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2), can also increase your risk. These are inherited conditions that often lead to medullary thyroid cancer.
Radiation Exposure
Radiation is also the best-established risk factor for thyroid cancer. Individuals who underwent radiation to the head or neck in childhood are at increased risk.
Living near a nuclear accident site, working in certain high-radiation environments, or even having frequent medical imaging like CT scans of the neck may slightly increase the risk.
Iodine Intake
You require iodine as part of your diet to enable your thyroid to function normally. Too little, or too much, iodine, and things get out of balance.
In certain areas where iodine deficiency prevails, the incidence of some forms of thyroid cancer (such as follicular) will usually be higher. Conversely, too much iodine in the diet can also lead to thyroid problems in some cases.
Personal History of Thyroid Conditions
If you have had other thyroid issues in the past, like goiter, thyroid nodules, or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, your risk may be slightly higher.
These conditions don’t cause cancer directly, but they can increase the chances of abnormal cells developing in the gland.
Obesity and Lifestyle Factors
We tend to associate obesity with heart disease or diabetes, but it can contribute to cancer as well, including thyroid cancer.
An association between excess body weight and a higher risk of thyroid cancer has been reported. Physical inactivity and poor diet might also be contributing factors, although more research is currently ongoing.
What are the Uncommon but Significant Thyroid Cancer Risk Factors?
Certain risk factors of thyroid cancer are not so prevalent but are still important.
- Genetic mutations such as RET (in medullary cancer) and BRAF (in papillary cancer) can influence how the cancer behaves.
- A history of other endocrine cancers may point to a genetic syndrome.
- Exposure to industrial chemicals in certain job environments may play a small role, though this is still being studied.
What are the Thyroid Cancer Risk Factors by Type?
Each type of thyroid cancer has its own risk factor pattern. Here’s a brief summary:
- Papillary: Frequently associated with radiation exposure and BRAF mutations.
- Follicular: Linked to iodine deficiency and spreads through the blood.
- Medullary: Typically associated with genetic syndromes, particularly those with the RET mutation. This can be familial.
- Anaplastic: Typically occurs in older adults, particularly those who might have had a long-standing goiter or undiagnosed thyroid disease.
Who Should Get Screened?
Not everybody requires routine screening for thyroid cancer, but if you belong to a high-risk group, discuss it with your doctor.
You might want to get screened if:
- You have a history of thyroid cancer in your family
- You received radiation therapy on your head or neck as a child
- You have thyroid nodules, Hashimoto’s, or other long-standing thyroid problems
- You work in an environment exposed to high radiation (such as medical radiology)
- You live close to places that have been exposed to nuclear fallout
Screening sometimes consists of a neck ultrasound or blood test to examine thyroid hormone levels.
Can You Prevent Thyroid Cancer?
Let’s get real: you can’t always prevent cancer. But you can reduce your chances in a few ways.
- Eat a well-balanced diet that contains just the right amount of iodine (not too little, not too much).
- Keep a healthy weight and exercise regularly.
- Avoid unnecessary radiation exposure especially repeated neck CT scans unless absolutely necessary.
- If you have a strong family history, genetic counseling is an option.
- Don’t dismiss thyroid symptoms such as lumps in your neck, a change in your voice, or swelling.
To Conclude
Thyroid cancer does not always show clear warning signs, which is why it is crucial information to know the risk factors. From your age and gender to your family background, medical history, and even lifestyle, everything contributes.
Some danger you can’t avoid but some you can. Monitoring your thyroid, visiting your doctor regularly, and discussing openly with your doctor can make a difference.
If you suspect you may be in a high-risk category, don’t wait. Ask your healthcare provider if you need screening. It’s a quick move that could have a huge impact on your health. Be informed, be healthy, and don’t hesitate to call a doctor if you see something that doesn’t seem quite right.
Want to learn more or get help with your thyroid health? Consult EdhaCare and we will get you in touch with the top thyroid cancer specialists.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is thyroid cancer hereditary?
Yes, some types like medullary thyroid cancer can run in families, especially if you carry certain gene mutations like RET.
Does smoking increase thyroid cancer risk?
Surprisingly, smoking is not a major risk factor for thyroid cancer, though it’s still harmful to your overall health and increases your risk for many other cancers.
Can thyroid cancer occur in children?
Yes, but it’s rare. When it does occur, it’s often linked to radiation exposure or genetics.
Who is most at risk for thyroid cancer?
Individuals at higher risk for thyroid cancer include those with a family history of the disease, people exposed to radiation (especially during childhood), and women. Certain genetic conditions can also increase susceptibility.
How to avoid thyroid cancer?
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent thyroid cancer, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce risk. This includes eating a balanced diet, managing radiation exposure, and monitoring any thyroid abnormalities with regular check-ups, particularly for those with a family history.