Learn the signs of thyroid cancer

Cancer can affect any part of the body, even a small gland at the base of the neck known as the thyroid.

The thyroid gland has two lobes that are located on either side of the trachea (windpipe). Its purpose is to release various hormones that play a role in maintaining metabolic rate and blood calcium levels.

According to Cancer Treatment Centers of America, thyroid cancer, in its early stages, may not be immediately detectable, as the signs and symptoms may be nonexistent or go unnoticed. Thyroid cancer may be discovered during a routine neck examination or after an imaging scan performed to diagnose another issue. The American Cancer Society advises that thyroid cancer may produce the following symptoms:

• a lump in the neck that sometimes may grow quickly

• swelling of the neck

• hoarnesss or other voice changes that do not subside

• pain in the front of the neck, sometimes traveling up to the ears

• difficulty breathing

• a constant cough that cannot be attributed to a cold

• unexplained fatigue

• trouble swallowing, or feeling like something is caught in the throat

Thyroid cancer is a relatively rare form of cancer, accounting for less than 1 percent of all cancer cases in the United Kingdom, according to the UK health-based organization NHS Inform. The National Cancer Institute’s SEER program indicates thyroid cancer makes up about 3 percent of all new cancer cases in the United States, and accounts for less than one-half of 1 percent of all cancer deaths.

Even though thyroid cancer may not be the most common or aggressive cancer, it does have a 30 percent recurrence rate. Papillary carcinoma is the most common form of thyroid cancer, accounting for approximately 80 percent of all cases, says Cancer Treatment Centers of America. These carcinomas are slow-growing and can develop in one or both lobes of the thyroid. While it may spread to nearby lymph nodes in the neck, papillary carcinoma is generally treatable and patients typically are given a good outlook for survival.

Follicular carcinoma is the second most common type of thyroid cancer. Even though it does not typically spread to lymph nodes, follicular carcinoma is more likely to spread to other organs, like the lungs or bones. This type of cancer is found more frequently in countries with inadequate dietary intake of iodine. Hürthle cell carcinoma, medullary thyroid carcinoma, and anaplastic carcinoma are other, more rare types of thyroid cancer.

Early diagnosis is the key to successful treatment of thyroid cancer. Should any signs or symptoms present themselves, individuals should speak with their doctors right away. The ACS says lumps in the thyroid are common and are usually benign. However, it is essential to play it safe. Learn more about thyroid cancer at www.cancercenter.com.