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First of all, what is thyroid cancer? It is a form of cancer that develops from the tissues in the thyroid gland.

The thyroid gland is located in the front of the throat, below the Adam's apple. The thyroid gland produces several important hormones that regulate the body in different ways. It controls the body temperature, weight, energy levels, and heart rate.

Here are a few Thyroid Cancer symptoms to look out for:

• Swelling: An early sign of thyroid cancer is an unusual lump, nodule or swelling in the neck. Most nodules on the thyroid are benign, but it’s important to have any nodules or growths examined by a doctor.
• Neck Pain: Neck pain can start from the front and may extend all the way to the ears
• Voice Changes: Hoarseness and other voice changes that do not go away after a certain time could be a sign of thyroid cancer
• Breathing Problems: Breathing difficulty is often a symptom of the disease.
• Coughing: A cough that persists, that isn't connected to a cold or other respiratory issue.
• Trouble Swallowing: A growth or nodule that interferes with swallowing

Dr. Shatul Parikh is a recognized expert in minimally invasive thyroid/parathyroid surgery.

Here are a few other thyroid tips:

1. Thyroid cancer has had the fastest increase in incidence of any cancer in recent years.
2. Thyroid cancer affects people of all ages, from young children to seniors.
3. Both women and men get thyroid cancer — more than two-thirds of the people with thyroid cancer are women.
4. Thyroid cancer has many types and variants, with treatment tailored to the type and individual.
5. When found early, thyroid cancer is usually treatable.
6. Even when treatable, thyroid cancer is life-disrupting, expensive, and stressful for patients and loved ones.
7. A simple Neck Check done by a medical professional during a routine appointment can detect a thyroid nodule.
8. Most thyroid nodules are benign, not cancer.
9. However, some thyroid cancers are aggressive and difficult to treat.