Thyroid cancer targets the small gland situated at the base of the neck, positioned in front of the windpipe. This vital gland produces hormones, including triiodothyronine and thyroxine, which are necessary for regulating the body's metabolism. Without the appropriate levels of these hormones to moderate how the body stores and uses energy, many of its functions can gradually begin to slow, impacting internal organs.
Understanding Thyroid Cancer
The British Thyroid Foundation notes that while cancer of the thyroid gland is rare, its incidence is increasing. However, there is significant hope for those diagnosed. Any cancer diagnosis is alarming, but thyroid cancer has a very high cure rate, and most patients go on to live a full and normal life.
Former Attorney General Pam Bondi was diagnosed with thyroid cancer shortly after President Donald Trump ousted her from the Justice Department last month, according to a report. Bondi has undergone treatment and is recovering from the disease, Axios first reported. A White House official confirmed the reporting to The Independent.
The condition is most common in people in their 30s and the over-60s, disproportionately impacting women, according to the NHS, who are said to be two to three times more likely to suffer from it than men.
Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer
The most common symptoms of the condition are as follows:
- A painless swelling or lump on the throat (only one in 20 such lumps are cancerous, however)
- Swollen glands in the neck
- Sudden hoarseness that fails to improve after several weeks
- A sore throat that persists without easing
- Discomfort when swallowing
If you experience any of the above symptoms, you are advised to have them looked at by a GP, who will determine whether they are really indicators of cancer or something less serious. After examining your neck, they may order a blood test to establish whether your thyroid is functioning healthily. If they believe there is reason for concern, you will be referred to hospital for further tests with a specialist.
Causes and Risk Factors
As to what causes thyroid cancer, the NHS explains that it happens when there is a change to the DNA inside thyroid cells which causes them to grow uncontrollably and produce a lump. It is not immediately clear what catalyses that change, according to the health service, but factors that can increase your risk of contracting thyroid cancer include:
- A history of other thyroid conditions (overactive, underactive or inflammation)
- A family history of the disease
- Exposure to radiation in childhood
- Obesity
- Suffering from the bowel condition familial adenomatous polyposis or from acromegaly
Treatment Options
Thyroid cancer is treated in four ways: by the removal of the cancerous cells by surgery, by the administration of radioactive iodine, by external radiotherapy or by chemotherapy. Regular follow-up appointments will then be required to ensure the cancer has not returned.
For more information on the condition, please visit the website of the British Thyroid Foundation.
