Thyroid Cancer - Summary, Symptoms & Treatments

What is thyroid cancer?

Thyroid cancer starts in the thyroid gland, located in the front part of the neck below what most people call the “Adam’s apple” (thyroid cartilage). The thyroid makes hormones that help regulate metabolism, heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature.
 
Different types of growths and tumors can develop in the thyroid gland. Most are non-cancerous (benign). Others are cancerous (malignant) and can spread into nearby tissues and/or to other parts of the body.
 
The thyroid gland has two main types of cells—follicular and C cells (also called parafollicular cells). Thyroid cancer is classified by the type of cell in which the cancer begins. The four main types of thyroid cancer are papillary, follicular, medullary and anaplastic.
 
Papillary thyroid cancer is the most common thyroid cancer, accounting for about 70–80% of cases. These cancers tend to grow very slowly. Although they sometimes spread to the lymph nodes in the neck, these cancers can often be treated successfully and are rarely fatal.
 
While it can occur at any age, thyroid cancer is most often diagnosed at a younger age than most adult cancers – most frequently in people between ages 30 and 60. More aggressive types of thyroid cancer are often found in older individuals. Women are approximately three times more likely to develop thyroid cancer than men. Thyroid cancer is 40-50% less common in Black people than in any other racial or ethnic group.
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What are the signs and symptoms of thyroid cancer?

Thyroid cancer often develops slowly and without symptoms in its early stages. However, as it grows, it may cause noticeable signs, including:
 

• A lump or swelling in the neck that may be painless
• Hoarseness or voice changes that persist
• Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of something stuck in the throat
• Neck pain that may extend to the ears
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Persistent cough not related to a cold

 
It is important to play close attention if you notice any of these symptoms and contact your health care provider for proper evaluation.
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How is thyroid cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosing thyroid cancer begins with a physical examination so that your doctor can evaluate the symptoms you are experiencing and discuss your health history in detail.
 
A combination of imaging tests, blood tests and biopsies can confirm a diagnosis. These typically include imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT, MRI or other scans and blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels. If abnormal cells are found, a biopsy using various methods can confirm the presence of thyroid cancer by analyzing lung tissue under a microscope. If cancer is confirmed, additional tests may be done to identify genetic mutations or biomarkers to help determine the best treatment options.
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What causes thyroid cancer?

Thyroid cancer occurs when genetic mutations in thyroid cells cause them to grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. While the exact cause of thyroid cancer is unknown, several factors may contribute to an increased risk, including:
 

• Exposure to radiation, especially to the head or neck, from medical treatments or environmental sources
• Some inherited genetic mutations and a family history of thyroid cancer
• Both a deficiency and an excess of iodine in the diet have been associated with certain types of thyroid cancer, though this is rare in the U.S.
• Thyroid conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or goiter
• Estrogen hormones (in women) that may have an influence on the growth of thyroid cells
• Aging

Though these factors may contribute to thyroid cancer development, many people diagnosed with the disease have no clear risk factors.
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Why is thyroid cancer more common in women than in men?

Thyroid cancer is more prevalent in women than men, with women being about three times more likely to develop it. While the exact reason is not fully understood, several key factors may contribute, such as:
 

• Hormonal influence: Estrogen and progesterone appear to play a role in the growth of thyroid cells. The thyroid gland has receptors for these hormones, and fluctuations—especially during puberty, pregnancy and menopause—may increase the likelihood of mutations leading to cancer.
• Higher rate of thyroid disorders: Women are more likely to have thyroid nodules, autoimmune thyroid diseases (e.g., Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease) and other thyroid-related conditions, which may increase the risk of thyroid cancer. Chronic inflammation from these disorders could contribute to abnormal cell growth.
• Increased medical surveillance: Women are more likely than men to seek routine medical care and undergo thyroid ultrasounds or physical exams, leading to earlier detection of nodules and thyroid cancer.
• Genetic and immune system differences: Women’s immune systems function differently than men’s, and autoimmune diseases (which are more common in women) have been linked to an increased risk of thyroid cancer.

Research is ongoing to fully understand these influences.
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Is thyroid cancer genetic?

Yes, some forms of thyroid cancer have a strong genetic component and some thyroid cancers appear to run in families. It is best to talk with your doctor about your family medical history and any genetic factors that may be present.
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Is thyroid cancer curable?

Many types of thyroid cancer are highly curable, especially when diagnosed early. More aggressive types may be harder to cure but may still be managed with advanced treatments. The prognosis depends on several factors, including the type, stage at diagnosis and overall health of the patient.
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Is there a screening test for thyroid cancer?

Currently, there is no routine screening test for thyroid cancer recommended for the general population. Certain tests or evaluations may be recommended for certain people based on personal risk factors.
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What are the best things people can do to reduce the risk of thyroid cancer?

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent thyroid cancer, people can take several steps to reduce their risk:
 

• Avoid exposure to unnecessary radiation and reduce exposure to environmental toxins such as pesticides, flame retardants or other harmful chemicals.
• Maintain a healthy weight, as obesity may be linked to an increased risk.
• Eat a nutrient rich diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Avoid smoking, as it can negatively affect overall thyroid function and health.
• Discuss your medical and family history with your doctor.

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How is thyroid cancer treated?

Each patient and each cancer is unique. Treatment options for thyroid cancer depend on a number of factors, including the specific type, size, location and grade of the tumor and the patient’s overall health.
 
Treatments may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and hormone therapy. Many treatment advances have occurred in the past decade. The development of targeted therapies that can specifically destroy or disrupt the spread of cancer cells and immunotherapies that boost the body’s own immune system to fight cancer are giving oncologists many more treatment options that are safe and effective for patients.
 
At FCS, physicians develop a personalized treatment plan in partnership with patients. FCS is committed to advancing treatment and outcomes for patients with all forms of cancer. Significant strides continue to offer more hope and better outcomes for those affected by the disease. Each year, dozens of clinical trials are conducted within FCS to find newer, better and more targeted treatments.
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