Thyroid Cancer Awareness Week

What is thyroid cancer?
Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine-related malignancy. It begins in the thyroid gland from cells that have begun to grow out of control. Globally, in 2020, the age-standardised incidence rates of thyroid cancer were 10.1 per 100 000 women and 3.1 per 100 000 men.a In the Philippines, thyroid cancer ranks seventh overall based on the latest Department of Health Statistics.b, c

What are the initial symptoms of thyroid cancer?
In the detection of thyroid cancer, self-awareness plays a crucial role. At first however, there maybe no symptoms. But as the cancer cells grow, there could be just a lump in the neck to frank neck swelling, enlarged lymph nodes, changes in voice quality, difficulty swallowing and difficulty breathing. Thus, it is important to be proactive in recognizing symptoms and regularly checking the neck for any abnormalities or changes.

What are the diagnostic tests for thyroid cancer?
Diagnostic techniques are currently available and would include a simple physical neck examination, thyroid ultrasound and fine needle aspiration biopsy, CT and MRI scans, among others.

How is thyroid cancer treated?
Management on the other hand involves several approaches including, surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, external beam radiation therapy and targeted therapy. The specific treatment plan would depend on specific patient factors.

Prognosis subsequently vary depending on the type of thyroid cancer and stage at diagnosis. Most importantly, regardless of the type of thyroid cancer, when detected early, majority respond very well to treatment.