Thyroid cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cells of the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped organ located at the front of the neck. It is one of the most treatable types of cancer, with a five-year survival rate of 98%.
Overview of Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ located at the front of the neck, just below the Adam’s apple. It produces hormones that help control heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and weight.
Types of Thyroid Cancer
The four main types of thyroid cancer are:
• Papillary thyroid cancer: This is the most common type of thyroid cancer, and it is typically slow-growing.
• Follicular thyroid cancer: This type of thyroid cancer is more aggressive than papillary thyroid cancer, but it is still treatable.
• Medullary thyroid cancer: This type of thyroid cancer is more aggressive than the other types, but it is still treatable.
• Anaplastic thyroid cancer: This is the most aggressive type of thyroid cancer, and it is usually difficult to treat.
Risk Factors for Thyroid Cancer
There are several risk factors for developing thyroid cancer, including:
• Age: Thyroid cancer is more common in people over the age of 40.
• Gender: Women are more likely to develop thyroid cancer than men.
• Exposure to radiation: Exposure to radiation, such as from radiation treatments for other cancers, can increase the risk of developing thyroid cancer.
• Family history: Having a family history of thyroid cancer can increase the risk of developing thyroid cancer.
Treatment for Thyroid Cancer
Treatment for thyroid cancer typically involves surgery to remove the thyroid gland, followed by radioactive iodine treatment. In some cases, chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy may also be used.
Survival Rate of Thyroid Cancer
The five-year survival rate for people with thyroid cancer is 98%. This means that 98% of people diagnosed with thyroid cancer are still alive five years after diagnosis. However, the survival rate depends on the type and stage of the cancer.