What Causes Thyroid Cancer?
Like most cancers, there isn’t a clear cause of thyroid cancer. Researchers are still studying links between risks and the disease. Many patients with thyroid cancer didn’t even suspect something was wrong when they were diagnosed.
Who Is at Risk of Retting Thyroid Cancer?
When it comes to getting cancer, some people are more at likely to get it than others. Even if you have some risk factors, it does not mean you will get thyroid cancer in your life.
Thyroid cancer risks can increase for a few reasons:
- Age: Adults 25-65 years old
- Environment: Exposure to radiation
- Health history:
- Radiation treatment during infancy or childhood
- An enlarged thyroid (goiter)
- Having multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN, an inherited disorder)
- Family history: Thyroid disease in your immediate or extended family
- Gender: Women (more than men)
How Can I Lower My Risk of Thyroid Cancer?
Unfortunately, most thyroid cancer risks are things you just can’t change about yourself, like age or gender. But if you have a number of risk factors and are worried, it’s time to talk with your doctor.
If you had exposure to radiation as a child, your doctor will already be monitoring you. But if you have new information like family health history or an enlarged thyroid, make an appointment. Even if you can’t lower your risks, you have options. Your physician can follow you over time and request specific tests to catch any early signs or symptoms.
Our Siteman care coordinators – oncology-trained nurses who help with scheduling, finding the right specialist, and guidance – can help you through the process.
Call us directly or submit a form, and we will call you back.