Thyroid Cancer

The thyroid gland is situated in the central portion of the lower neck, extending to both sides and lying over the wind pipe. It is part of the endocrine system and secretes hormones which are crucial to the overall regulation of the body. Thyroid tumours are common but are mostly benign and usually occur in women. Thyroid tumours are usually investigated when larger than 1cm in size. Thyroid cancers usually occur in the ages of 20-55 as opposed to most other cancers which occur later in life. Radiation exposure is the only well known risk factor for thyroid cancer. Some cancers can occur as part of a hereditary pattern. Thyroid cancers are amongst the most curable cancers, with survival over 97-98%.

 
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Signs & Symptoms

  • Mass close to the midline of the Neck

  • Hoarseness

  • Difficulty Swallowing

  • Difficulty Breathing

  • Mass/es on the sides of the Neck