There is an array of health checks people will voluntarily take to ensure early cancer detection. From mammograms to prostate checks, these are the most typical health concerns people have. But one type of cancer that is often underrated is thyroid cancer. Cases of thyroid cancer have been rising steadily in the last few decades. Furthermore, this disease seems to be affecting women more ten men. This article examines the typical risk factors of thyroid cancer and the common symptoms that you should be on the lookout for.
Thyroid cancer risk factors
Hereditary risk
If anyone in your genetic line has had thyroid cancer, it is likely that you could be at risk of developing this cancer too. This risk factor is exceptionally high when an immediate relative, for instance, a sibling or a parent, has had this cancer before.
Iodine deficiency
If your diet does not have sufficient iodine in it, you become at risk of developing follicular and papillary thyroid cancer. Although iodine is a staple component in table salt, some people do not have an adequate intake of salt, which in turn decrease the iodine in their food. You may want to consider iodine supplements for your diet.
Radiation exposure
If you have been exposed to radiation, be it due to medical treatments or perhaps a nuclear fallout in your area, there is the threat of developing thyroid cancer. While radiation contamination in your environment may be rare, radiation therapy is quite standard. And if you needed this type of treatment for your neck or head during your childhood, your risk of thyroid cancer becomes heightened.
Symptoms of possible thyroid cancer
A suspicious lump on your neck: Since the thyroid gland is situated in your throat, it is vital to be wary of any suspicious lumps on this body part. If the lump does not go away on its own in a couple of weeks, you should set up an appointment for a medical exam.
The progressive trouble with swallowing: Difficulty swallowing is common when you are suffering from a sore throat. But is your throat is not sore, but you are finding it harder to ingest your food, you should have your throat examined for thyroid cancer, as this could be causing some swelling in your throat.
Changes in your voice: When you voice is chronically hoarse without any apparent reason, you should have a medical professional investigate this symptom. The thyroid gland is found right below the voice box, so any changes to this gland will also impact your voice.
Hello! My name is Brian and this blog is designed to help you to understand the various health and medical services which are available to you. Until I became unwell, I had no idea just how many different health and medical services were offered to me by my doctor and the local hospital. Thankfully, when I began to have some trouble with my heart, my doctor was able to refer me to a specialist who carried out a series of tests. I have recently had an operation and I am now feeling much better. I hope my blog helps you if you are about to go into hospital.