Thyroid Cancer: A silent threat South Africans shouldn't ignore
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While thyroid cancer is not among the most commonly discussed cancers in South Africa, its global impact, and growing local significance make it worth paying attention to.
As International Thyroid Awareness Week is from May 25 to 31, it's an important reminder for South Africans to take thyroid health seriously, especially since this often-silent disease can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender.
With early detection, most types of thyroid cancer are highly treatable, yet many South Africans remain unaware of the risks, symptoms, and treatment options.
The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland at the front of your neck that plays a critical role in regulating your body's metabolism.
According to the Global Cancer Observatory, thyroid cancer is the seventh most common cancer worldwide. In South Africa, although comprehensive national data is limited, specialists are seeing a steady increase in diagnoses, particularly as access to ultrasound and diagnostic tools improves.
Thyroid cancer develops when cells in the thyroid undergo changes in their DNA. These changes lead to uncontrolled cell growth, which can eventually form a tumour.
While the cause is often unknown, exposure to high levels of radiation, such as radiation therapy to the head and neck, can increase the risk. Family history may also play a role.
According to Dr Eric Moore, a head and neck surgeon at the Mayo Clinic, most forms of thyroid cancer are treatable: 'Minimally invasive surgery may be an option, sometimes sparing much of the noncancerous thyroid gland tissue.'
However, he cautions that rarer, more aggressive types of thyroid cancer can be much harder to treat. He adds that 'our research and treatment have made transformative strides in the outcomes for our patients with these types of thyroid cancer.'
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Women are more frequently diagnosed with thyroid cancer than men, but this doesn't necessarily mean they're at greater risk. Dr Victor Bernet, an endocrinologist at the Mayo Clinic in Florida, explains that women tend to be more proactive about their health, often leading to earlier diagnosis.
'Men have a risk, and we're not catching them as much,' he says. In advanced cases, the risk levels between men and women are nearly equal.
One of the challenges with thyroid cancer is that it often presents no symptoms in its early stages. As it progresses, however, people may notice swelling in the neck, changes in voice (especially hoarseness), persistent throat pain, or difficulty swallowing.
These symptoms are easy to dismiss, which is why awareness is critical.
Treatment usually involves surgery, depending on the type and stage of the cancer
Surgical options include: Thyroidectomy : Removal of all or most of the thyroid gland.
Thyroid lobectomy : Removal of one lobe of the thyroid, often used when the cancer is slow-growing and contained.
Lymph node dissection: If cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, some may be removed for testing or treatment.
Surgical decisions depend on the cancer's size, spread, and the patient's preferences. Many patients also require hormone therapy after surgery to maintain normal metabolic function.
For South Africans, the takeaway is clear: thyroid cancer is not rare, and it's not always obvious. Whether you're male or female, young or older, understanding the warning signs and seeking medical advice when symptoms arise can make all the difference.
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