It arises with the growth of cancerous cells in the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is located in the front part of the neck and produces hormones. This type of cancer usually progresses slowly and may not show symptoms in the early stages. Risk factors include genetic predisposition, exposure to radiation, and female gender. Thyroid cancer can be treated with methods such as surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, and hormone therapy. Early diagnosis is important.
Thyroid Cancer Symptoms
It arises with the growth of cancerous cells in the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is located in the front part of the neck and produces hormones. This type of cancer usually progresses slowly and may not show symptoms in the early stages. Risk factors include genetic predisposition, exposure to radiation, and female gender. Thyroid cancer can be treated with methods such as surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, and hormone therapy. Early diagnosis is important.
Thyroid Cancer Causes
People with a family history of thyroid cancer have an increased risk of developing the disease. Certain genetic syndromes, such as Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN) syndrome, can increase the risk. Exposure to radioactive rays in the thyroid gland can increase the risk. Radioactive treatment to the head and neck area during childhood increases the risk. It is more common in women than in men. Additionally, it is more frequently seen in individuals between the ages of 30-60. Thyroid hormone levels and hormonal changes may play a role in its development. Especially the effect of the hormone estrogen is emphasized. Insufficient iodine intake can affect the healthy functioning of the thyroid gland and increase the risk. Moreover, excessive iodine intake is thought to pose a risk in some cases. Individuals with nodules or other diseases in the thyroid gland have a higher risk of development. Each of these factors can contribute to the development of thyroid cancer, but the disease can also develop without any of these factors being present in some individuals. Therefore, regular doctor check-ups and healthy lifestyle recommendations should be considered to reduce the risk.
Thyroid Cancer Treatment
Surgical treatment is the most common form of treatment. Surgery is usually performed to remove the cancerous thyroid tissue. This procedure may involve the removal of the entire thyroid gland (thyroidectomy) or part of it (lobectomy). Surgery is determined based on the spread of the disease. After surgery, especially if there is a high risk of cancer spreading, radiotherapy can be applied. This method uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. Sometimes it can also be used before surgery. In some types of thyroid cancer, especially the follicular type, a radioactive substance called iodine-131 is used. This treatment aims to destroy remaining cancer cells after surgery. If the entire thyroid gland is removed, the body's hormone balance must be maintained. For this purpose, thyroid hormones need to be given. These hormones are used to balance thyroid hormone levels in the body. They are also used to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. In some aggressive forms of cancer (e.g., anaplastic thyroid cancer), chemotherapy or targeted therapies may also be used. These treatments aim to stop the growth of cancer cells by targeting them. The thyroid cancer treatment plan should be personalized for each patient. Therefore, detailed information about treatment options should be obtained. It is important to consult a specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment method.