September is thyroid cancer awareness month and, before the calendar ticks over to October, we wanted to share some key facts about thyroid cancer and suggest some places for more information and support.
What are the key facts about thyroid cancer?
Thyroid cancer is an uncommon cancer. Around 2,700 people are diagnosed each year in the UK. Women are more likely to get thyroid cancer than men.
There are different types of thyroid cancer. The most common types can usually be treated successfully, so most people who get thyroid cancer are cured.
What is the thyroid gland?
The thyroid gland is found just below the voicebox in the front of our necks. It produces hormones which help to keep our bodies functioning at normal rates. Too many hormones and we can lose weight and feel anxious and edgy. Not enough hormones and we can put on weight, feel tired and think slowly. But having an overactive or underactive thyroid gland does not increase the risk of thyroid cancer.
What are the main symptoms of thyroid cancer?
The main symptom of thyroid cancer is a lump in the neck that isn’t painful and gradually gets bigger.
Other symptoms include:
You should always see your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms. Most thyroid lumps or swellings are not cancer and are caused by other conditions.
What is the main treatment for thyroid cancer?
Surgery is usually the first treatment for most types of thyroid cancer. To remove the cancer, the surgeon may remove part or all of the thyroid gland. Most people need two weeks or more to rest and recover from the surgery. It may take longer before you feel fully fit. Lots of people feel tired for some time afterwards.
If your thyroid gland is removed, you will no longer produce thyroid hormones. You will need to take thyroid hormone replacement tablets. You may need to take thyroid hormone replacement tablets if you have had part of your thyroid gland removed. The tablets help the body function at normal rates. They can also reduce the risk of cancer coming back.
What other treatments are used for thyroid cancer?
Treatment options for thyroid cancer will differ depending on individual situations but they include radioactive iodine, external beam radiotherapy, chemotherapy and targeted therapies.
Watch Lindsey’s story
When Lindsey was told she had thyroid cancer, she was in shock and had so many questions racing through her mind. She was put in touch with a Macmillan nurse, Marie, to help her answer them.
Watch Leigh’s story (Lindsey’s sister)
Hear Leigh talk about coping with the news that her sister Lindsey had thyroid cancer. She also discusses supporting her sister during treatment and how Macmillan's website helped her to deal with the challenges ahead.
Where can I find more information and support?
We have lots more information in our Understanding thyroid cancer (follicular and papillary) booklet.
You can contact the following organisations for more information and support:
British Thyroid Foundation
Butterfly Thyroid Cancer Trust
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We're with you every step of the way
The Macmillan team is here to help. Our cancer support specialists can answer your questions, offer support, or simply listen if you need a chat. Call us free on 0808 808 00 00.
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