The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that sits below the Adam’s apple in the throat and wraps around the trachea or wind-pipe. It’s one of the most important endocrine glands in the human body. It regulates how food is converted into energy, how temperature is regulated in the body and how we consume oxygen.
Like the organs of the body, even the glands are vulnerable to cancer. Thyroid cancer affects 1-2% of people in the world, at-least once in their lifetime. I.t occurs in people over 30 years of age, and the older the person, higher the risk. Being female is another risk, as women are three times more likely than men to be diagnosed with thyroid cancer.
It’s still not known what exactly causes thyroid cancer. But there are certain risk factors. Being a woman, or having a history of thyroid conditions including cancer increases the risk. Radiation is a significant factor, so people living close to nuclear facilities or exposed to radiation constantly, are at high risk. Obesity, a diet low in iodine, an enlarged thyroid (goiter) or thyroiditis which is an inflammation of the Thyroid are all significant risk-factors.
In the initial stages, thyroid cancer does not show prominent symptoms. It is only when the condition progresses that the following symptoms show up.
Recurrence: People who have had thyroid cancer in the past and have got cured have a small chance of the condition recurring. The symptoms and signs are similar to what they were the first time.
The best thing about Thyroid cancer is that it is easily treatable even if it is in the advanced stage. If you or any of your dear ones are showing any of the above symptoms, rush to a reputed hospital. Endocrine specialists will diagnose your condition precisely and then choose the best course of treatment for quick recovery and rehabilitation.
Reviewed by Dr Suresh S Venkita, Group Medical Director, Kauvery Hospitals
Kauvery Hospital is globally known for its multidisciplinary services at all its Centers of Excellence, and for its comprehensive, Avant-Grade technology, especially in diagnostics and remedial care in heart diseases, transplantation, vascular and neurosciences medicine. Located in the heart of Trichy (Tennur, Royal Road and Alexandria Road (Cantonment), Chennai, Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli and Bengaluru, the hospital also renders adult and pediatric trauma care.
Chennai – 044 4000 6000 • Trichy – Cantonment – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Heartcity – 0431 4003500 • Trichy – Tennur – 0431 4022555 • Hosur – 04344 272727 • Salem – 0427 2677777 • Tirunelveli – 0462 4006000 • Bengaluru – 080 6801 6801
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