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What is the thyroid?

The thyroid is a small gland that sits at the base of the voice box (larynx) near the windpipe (trachea). It produces hormones that control the body's temperature, metabolism and heart rate. It is also involved in controlling the levels of calcium in the blood.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is thyroid cancer?

Thyroid cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the thyroid. These abnormal cells grow to form a cancer, which can spread to other parts of the body (metastasize).

What causes thyroid cancer?

The cause of thyroid cancer, as with other cancers, is due to damage to cellular DNA. This damage results in uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells, which leads to formation of a cancer. The damage to thyroid cells can be from a number of causes, such as …

Can thyroid cancer be cured?

Most cases of thyroid cancer can be cured with appropriate treatment, especially if found early.

Are there different types of thyroid cancer?

There are four different types of thyroid cancer, identified by the cells that originate it. The types of cancer are papillary, follicular, medullar and anaplastic.

What increases the chances of developing thyroid cancer?

Risk factors for thyroid cancer include: age - people most affected are 25 to 65 years old; gender - thyroid cancer is more common in women; radiation exposure; diet - a diet low in iodine or high in cheese, butter and meat; an …

What is the outlook for thyroid cancer?

Prognosis for thyroid cancer varies according to its type and stage, but is generally very good. The overall five-year survival rate is 96%. For those who survive the first year, the survival rate increases to 98%. These survival rates do not apply …

How is thyroid cancer diagnosed?

Thyroid cancer is diagnosed from specific blood tests, scans such as ultrasound and computerized tomography (CT), and a tissue biopsy.

How is thyroid cancer treated?

Thyroid cancer is treated using a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and targeted therapy. The choice of treatment is determined by the type of thyroid cancer being treated.

Can thyroid cancer be prevented?

Generally, development of a thyroid cancer cannot be prevented. However, in the case of familial medullary thyroid cancer, where gene mutations that increase the risk of developing the cancer have been identified, the thyroid gland can be removed as a …

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Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is the result of an underactive thyroid gland. It leads to an undersupply of hormones that control metabolism in the body. If hormone levels are not within a normal range, this can affect the whole body, causing a wide range of symptoms and health problems.…
Diseases & conditions

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a condition caused by an overactive thyroid gland. It can lead to an oversupply of hormones that control metabolism, which can cause a wide range of symptoms including a rapid pulse, shaking and hair loss. Treatment involves medication and surgery.…
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Lung cancer

Lung cancer is the name for cancers that arise in lung tissue. Abnormal cells can interfere with lung function and spread to other parts of the body. Smoking is a major risk factor, although non-smokers can also develop lung cancer.…
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Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is the name for cancers that arise in the ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system. Abnormal cells can form tumours in the ovaries and spread to other parts of the body.…
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Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of cancer that starts in the melanocyte cells of the skin, usually due to damage from UV light (sunlight). A new or changing mole may be a sign of a potential melanoma. Melanoma cells can spread to other parts of the body.…
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Squamous cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is cancer that starts in the skin’s squamous cells due to damage from UV light (sunlight). SCC often appears like a red patch or sore. It can spread to other parts of the body, although this is rare.…

About this article

Author: Kellie Heywood
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Votes: 757 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Hypothyroidism

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