Health
Thyroid cancer – Causes, Symptoms, and management
The thyroid gland is one of the most crucial organs in the human body and is responsible for producing hormones. These hormones control vital functions like blood pressure, heart rate, and core body temperature. It is located in the lower region of the neck. Any abnormal cell growth in this region causes thyroid cancer, more cases of which are reported among women. The known causes, risk factors, and symptoms of thyroid cancer are listed below. Causes and risk factors Family history of cancer Having a close family member who was previously diagnosed with thyroid cancer significantly increases the risk. It is for first-degree relatives, including parents, brothers, sisters, or children. Genetic risk Inheriting faulty genes also increases the risk of certain types of cancer. A modified genetic code can trigger health complications linked to the thyroid gland. Genetic risk is a common trigger factor in 25% of the cases diagnosed with medullary thyroid cancer. Exposure to radiation The thyroid gland is susceptible to radiation. Therefore, repeated exposure does increase the risk of cancer among men and women. Commonly, the first signs of radiation exposure include developing nodules and lumps around the thyroid gland. Iodine deficiency Iodine is an essential nutrient for the thyroid gland to function normally.
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