The thyroid, this little organ that looks like a butterfly, plays an important role in the human system. However, thyroid cancer, like a hidden “time bomb”, threatens people’s health. Today, we have come to learn more about thyroid cancer and the key knowledge to prevent and respond to it.
I. What is thyroid cancer?
Thyroid cancer is a malignant tumour originating from the skin of the thyroid filter or the skin cells attached to the filter. The causes of the disease are not yet entirely clear, but are known to be related to a number of factors. Radioactive exposure is one of the important factors, such as a significant increase in the risk of thyroid cancer as a result of being treated for radiotherapy of the neck during childhood. In addition, genetic factors cannot be ignored, as there is a relatively high incidence of thyroid cancer in the family. Some of the pathologies of the thyroid itself, such as thyroid glands and goitres, may also lead to thyroid cancer if not addressed in a timely manner.
II. “Fake art” for thyroid cancer
Early thyroid cancers are usually not marked, and many patients occasionally find thyroid glands during medical examinations. Some patients may have symptoms such as swelling of the neck, acoustic noise, difficulty in swallowing or breathing, but these are also susceptible to neglect or misdiagnosis as other diseases. Therefore, regular thyroid examinations are essential, especially for high-risk groups such as women (with a higher incidence of thyroid cancer than men), persons exposed to long-term radioactive substances, and persons with family history.
“Tracing” for thyroid cancer
1. Ultrasound examination
This is the preferred method of thyroid examination, which provides a clear view of thyroid morphology, size, structure and no knots, as well as a preliminary assessment of the nature (e.g., cystic, physical, mixed), size, quantity, clarity of borders, calcification, etc., and provides an important basis for subsequent diagnosis.
2. Thyroid function examination
To determine whether thyroid cancer affects the functioning of the thyroid by detecting thyroid hormone levels in the blood and understanding its functioning.
3. Precise needle puncture test
In the case of suspicious knots detected by ultrasound, a biopsy of a needle can obtain a cell sample for a pathological examination, which is a “gold standard” for the diagnosis of thyroid cancer, and is able to identify the nefariousness of the knot.
IV. “Response strategies” for thyroid cancer
1. Surgery
The procedure is the main method of treatment for thyroid cancer, including thyroid hysterectomy, thyroid folicectomy, etc., depending on the tumour ‘ s size, location, pathology type and the patient ‘ s physical condition. The purpose of the operation was to completely remove the tumor and reduce the risk of relapse.
2. Radioiodine treatment
In the case of some patients with differentiated thyroid cancer, after surgery, radioioiodine treatment may be required to prevent the recurrence of tumours using thyroid tissues and possible cancer cells left behind by radioiodine.
3. Endocrine treatment
Post-operative patients usually require long-term use of thyroid hormones, both to supplement thyroid hormones and to maintain normal body metabolisms, and to inhibit thyroid hormones (TSH) secretion and reduce the risk of re-emergence of thyroid cancer.
While the incidence of thyroid cancer is increasing, if we are able to learn about it and have regular medical examinations, so that early detection, early diagnosis and early treatment can be achieved, we can effectively control the situation and avoid the risk of small cancer becoming a major disease. Let’s focus on thyroid health and use knowledge to protect life.
