Thyroid Cancer Awareness and Screening
Thyroid cancer is relatively rare but still affects thousands each year. Common signs and symptoms include a lump in the neck, changes in voice, difficulty swallowing, and unexplained fatigue.
Certain individuals are at a higher risk of thyroid cancer. This includes those with a family history of thyroid cancer, people who have been exposed to radiation (especially to the head or neck), pre-existing thyroid issues and certain genetic conditions. Women are also more likely to develop thyroid cancer than men, particularly between the ages of 30 and 60. Young adults and teens also face a higher risk than other age groups.
Remember that thyroid cancer can affect anyone, even if you are not at risk. If you’ve noticed a lump in your neck - get it checked! Around 90-95% of thyroid lumps (also known as thyroid nodules) are benign, but if it turns out to be cancerous, early detection can make all the difference.
Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month
September is Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, a time to increase awareness about thyroid cancer, its symptoms, and the importance of early detection. With early diagnosis and treatment, thyroid cancer has a high survival rate, making awareness and screenings critical for better outcomes.
Thyroid Cancer Screening
The screening process generally starts with a physical examination, where the doctor checks for visible lumps or swelling in the neck. If a lump or nodule is found, further tests are usually conducted to determine if it is cancerous. These tests include:
- Ultrasound: This imaging test helps doctors evaluate the size, shape, and characteristics of the nodule. Certain features on an ultrasound may suggest that a nodule is more likely to be cancerous.
- Blood Tests: Blood tests can measure hormone levels and check for markers that may suggest thyroid dysfunction or cancer. For instance, an elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level could indicate an issue with thyroid function.
- Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy: If the ultrasound shows suspicious features, a fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy may be performed. During this minimally invasive procedure, a thin needle is used to remove a small sample of cells from the thyroid nodule, which are then examined for cancerous cells.
- Radioactive Iodine Scan or CT Scans: In some cases, a radioactive iodine scan or CT scan may be ordered to determine if the cancer has spread to other areas, such as the lungs or lymph nodes.
How Often Should You Do Cancer Screenings for Thyroid?
Doctors don’t usually recommend thyroid cancer screening if you don’t have any symptoms. At-risk patients might be encouraged to check-in with their ENT doctor more regularly. You should get screened if you find a lump in the neck. If new lumps appear after your screening, you should get screened again. Even if it’s not cancer, it could still be another thyroid condition that requires treatment.
When to Worry About Thyroid Nodules
In most cases, thyroid nodules are not a reason to worry. However, you should always be proactive about new or changing nodules. If the nodule is a sign of something else, it’s better to find out sooner rather than later. Thyroid nodules can be a sign of different thyroid conditions, not just cancer. Accurate diagnosis is crucial to avoid unnecessary worry and to ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment—whether that’s medication, lifestyle changes, or further monitoring. Early intervention can make all the difference in managing your thyroid health and preventing potential complications.
See a Thyroid Specialist in Georgia
Patients in Georgia can schedule a screening appointment at Northwest ENT with Dr. Shatul L. Parikh, a recognized leader in thyroid care. Dr. Parikh is a nationally recognized expert in thyroid and parathyroid surgery. He has one of the largest volumes of these surgeries performed in the country and is always up to date with the latest techniques and advancements in the field.