Risk Factors of Thyroid Cancer

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most sweeping form of thyroid cancer in the United States and statistics show that more than 80 percent of all thyroid cancers are this type. The disease is many times inherited, as first-degree relatives of PTC patients have a three to eight times higher chance of developing the disease. This extensive genetic element, however, has not led researchers to identify genetic factors that predispose people to the affliction. Researchers suggest that if a mutation within any of the genes were found, then perhaps the issue has to do with how the genes were being regulated, or turned off and on.

What are some of the risk factors for Thyroid Cancer?

Thyroid cancer is a medical condition of which the cause has yet to be determined, however some researchers have stated that there are known risk factors such as radiation exposure at a young age, smoking and drinking. The debate on this issue continues because several other researchers disagree with this theory and argue that smoking and drinking have not yet proven to be directly related to the disease. But, they also reveal that it is better to avoid them. And although there is no clear consensus as to whether smoking and drinking are linked as direct causes of thyroid gland malignancy, these researchers agree that it is better to give up smoking and drinking for general good health. Indeed, there may be no direct correlation between thyroid cancer and smoking/drinking, but there is a school of thought that believe these actions might possibly be risk factors for thyroid cancer, therefore if one is predisposed genetically to thyroid cancer, it is best to avoid smoking and drinking altogether.

What should I do if I notice a nodule in my neck?

People who notice unusual nodules in the neck should visit a doctor in a short time in order to find out if the nodules represents a malign or a benign tumor. Indeed, the doctor can examine the patient by a simple examination of the neck and also he can settle a proper diagnosis by performing certain laboratory tests which are intended to determine the function of the thyroid gland.

Are there any other risk factors for thyroid disease?

Accumulation of acids in your body due to insufficient digestion of food, food allergies and consumption of acid-forming substances can cause thyroid disorder. Acid-associated causes of thyroid disorder also include susceptibility to heavy metals and toxic chemicals in the water supply and in highly processed food. When the body's acid level increases to a high level, thyroid function will be depressed and metabolism will slow.

Insufficient levels of digestive enzymes, also caused by over-consumption of processed foods, can cause a thyroid disorder. The body's ability to neutralize acids is further reduced and as people age, the more toxins introduced into the human system, the higher the likelihood of developing a thyroid disorder.

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Therefore, it is surmised by researchers that to reduce the risk factors can result in a decreased chance of developing thyroid cancer.