Recently,
"thyroid cancer" has once again sparked discussions, with related
topics trending on the hot search list.
Thyroid cancer is a malignant tumor originating from the epithelial cells of the thyroid follicles or parafollicular epithelium, and it is also the most common malignant tumor in the head and neck region.
The thyroid is the largest endocrine organ in the human body, primarily responsible for synthesizing and secreting thyroid hormones. Early symptoms of thyroid cancer are not obvious, and it is difficult to detect without careful observation in daily life. This leads to many cases of thyroid cancer being discovered at an advanced stage.
Epidemiological studies show that the incidence rate of thyroid cancer has been rapidly increasing globally in recent years.
Meanwhile, the incidence rate of thyroid cancer also exhibits two distinct characteristics:
The incidence rate among females is significantly higher than that among males. In 2020, there were 449,000 newly diagnosed female thyroid cancer patients and 137,000 newly diagnosed male thyroid cancer patients. The age-standardized incidence rates for females and males in the global population were 10.1 cases per 100,000 people and 3.1 cases per 100,000 people, respectively.
The incidence rate of thyroid cancer is higher among younger people, especially those aged 20 to 29.
Is thyroid cancer heritable
Thyroid cancer can be divided into papillary carcinoma, follicular carcinoma, undifferentiated carcinoma, and medullary carcinoma.
Papillary and follicular carcinomas have a low malignant potential, accounting for over 80% of cases; medullary carcinomas, which are more malignant, account for about 12%, and are prone to recurrence, with some being hereditary; undifferentiated carcinomas are extremely malignant, relatively rare, and account for less than 5% of cases!
Disease onset characteristics:
① Lack of diligence - long duration and slow progression;
② No sensation - mild or no symptoms, with over 99% of patients experiencing no pain;
③ Not severe - relatively low malignant potential;
④ Easy to cure - basically no need for chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
Thyroid cancer "prefers" young people, with a median age of onset in the 30s. Statistics from abroad show that the 20-30 age group ranks first in thyroid cancer detection rates. Generally speaking, thyroid cancer patients over the age of 45 face greater risks and require urgent treatment.
Currently, the widely recognized risk factors for thyroid cancer mainly include:
● Female
● Age: 45 years old or above
● Smoking
● Goiter, thyroid nodules
● Previous history of malignant tumor
Other factors, such as autoimmune thyroid diseases (e.g., Hashimoto's thyroiditis), subclinical hypothyroidism, and long-term estrogen replacement, are also believed to potentially increase the risk of thyroid cancer.
In other words, people with the aforementioned characteristics have a higher or lower likelihood of developing thyroid cancer.
Fortunately, while conditions such as being female and Hashimoto's thyroiditis increase the incidence rate of thyroid cancer, they also indicate better treatment outcomes.
Have you recognized the 5 warning signs of thyroid problems
1. Neck lump
If a lump is felt in the neck, it may be a thyroid nodule. Thyroid nodules can be either benign or malignant. Although most nodules are benign, they should not be taken lightly. If the nodule is large or growing rapidly, it is important to seek medical attention for examination.
2. Hoarse voice
Thyroid disease may compress the recurrent laryngeal nerve, leading to hoarseness. If hoarseness persists for a long time and there are no other apparent causes, thyroid issues should be considered.
3. Dysphagia
When the thyroid gland is enlarged or has nodules, it may compress the esophagus, causing difficulty in swallowing. This condition requires prompt medical attention for further examination and diagnosis
4. Weight change
Thyroid hormones have a significant impact on metabolism. If the thyroid function is hyperactive, the body's metabolism will accelerate, leading to weight loss; if the thyroid function is hypoactive, metabolism will slow down, and weight will increase. If there is a significant change in weight within a short period of time, thyroid problems should be considered.
5. Emotional changes
Abnormal thyroid function can also affect a person's mood. Patients with hyperthyroidism may experience anxiety, irritability, and anger; while those with hypothyroidism may exhibit symptoms such as depression, apathy, and memory loss. If there are significant changes in mood and other psychological factors have been ruled out, thyroid issues should be considered.
Protect your thyroid gland by following these 4 tips
Ensure good sleep
Ensure at least 7 hours of sleep per day and maintain a regular sleep schedule. The blue light emitted by electronic screens such as mobile phones can affect the body's secretion of melatonin, so it is recommended to stop using mobile phones at least half an hour before going to bed.
Scientific iodine supplementation
Maintain a balanced diet, incorporating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and other nutritious foods, while reducing intake of processed foods and high-calorie, high-fat foods. Additionally, it's important to monitor your iodine intake, ensuring it's neither too high nor too low.
reduce stress
It is recommended to relax oneself by listening to relaxing music, reading interesting books, chatting with friends, etc., and to improve mood through appropriate exercise.
regular physical examination
Regular thyroid function tests and neck ultrasound examinations should be conducted, especially for high-risk groups such as those with a family history, those who stay up late for a long time, and those under high stress.
Expert Introduction
Qian Yong, Chief Physician
Doctor of Oncology (postdoctoral)
Master's degree supervisor
The second batch of "Nanhai Experts" in Hainan Province
High-level "leading talent" in Hainan Province
Medical expertise: Specializes in the surgical treatment of various benign and malignant tumors of the head and neck, including thyroid tumors, nasopharyngeal cancer, oral cancer, and pharyngeal tumors; particularly skilled in the repair and functional reconstruction of post-operative defects in head and neck tumors, as well as precise and minimally invasive treatment of craniofacial tumors that also consider facial appearance.
Clinic Hours: Monday all day, Wednesday morning