Researchers Seek Clear Answers about Thyroid Cancer in Young People

Bucking the overarching trend of declining cancer rates, thyroid cancer has seen a sharp and mysterious resurgence over the last decade. Particularly troubling has been the disproportionately high rates of thyroid cancer seen among young adults, adolescents, and even children.

The scientific community is deeply divided over the origins of this disturbing trend. Although some researchers have connected it to the larger spike in overall thyroid cancer rates, others contend that there may unique strains of thyroid cancer to which younger people, for a variety of reasons, may be especially vulnerable.

One groundbreaking study conducted by Italian researchers seems to support this argument. The study found that younger people with thyroid cancer seem more prone to metastasis of the disease, meaning that the cancer often spreads throughout the body before a definitive diagnosis is made, making the possibility of recovery and survival less likely.

While the origins of highly aggressive thyroid cancer among young people remain controversial, research into this problem has been a major focus of worldwide thyroid cancer study in recent years. This week, we’ll survey some of the most significant recent findings that have emerged as scientists struggle to solve the thyroid cancer mystery.

Genetic Mutations Not Likely Cause of Aggressive Thyroid Cancer in Young

As scientists around the world have focused their efforts on investigating the factors that cause aggressive, fast-spreading, and difficult-to-diagnose cases of thyroid cancer among young adults and adolescents, some progress has been made by eliminating a number of possibilities.

A research team at the Department of Pediatrics of the University of the Health Sciences, in Bethesda, Maryland considered the possibility that certain genetic mutations may play a role in aggravating thyroid cancers in young patients. Specifically, the team focused on isolating and identifying specific mutations, such as a genetic quirk that has been linked to other types of aggressive, early-developing cancers, including breast cancer.

However, according to the team’s findings, the BRAF mutation does not appear to play a central role in papillary thyroid cancers among younger patients. Although the researchers suggest that other genetic factors may indeed play a role in the origin and progression of thyroid cancers in young people, this type of problem appears to have been statistically eliminated as a possible cause.

New Inroads in Early Detection of Thyroid Cancer Crucial to Positive Prognoses for Young Patients

Because papillary thyroid cancer tends to spread quickly without many clear symptoms in young people, researchers have exerted a great deal of effort trying to develop more effective methods of detecting the disease in its earliest stages.

In general, cases of papillary thyroid cancer progress at a different rate in younger patients than they do in their older counterparts. As such, researchers have focused on developing early detection strategies that could help yield a positive diagnosis as early as possible.

The study, published in a recent volume of the journal Otolaryngology: Head and Neck Surgery, classified the growth rates of several types of thyroid cancer among younger patients. The authors also found that the patient’s age at the time of diagnosis, rather than the size of the tumor, correlated most strongly with positive treatment outcome.

Surgical Procedure Can Prevent Thyroid Cancer in At-Risk Children and Adolescents

Medullary thyroid cancer can be deadly when undiagnosed in children and adolescents. Although this type of cancer is rare in the general population, individuals with one of several genetic mutations are at very high risk of developing the disease.

In a study conducted by researchers at Duke University, it was found that a preemptive surgical procedure may be the best way to prevent medullary thyroid cancer in children who possess this rare genetic mutation. Of the children who submitted to the surgery, virtually all remained cancer-free for a period of five years after the removal of their thyroid glands.

Although this option may appear severe, the researchers reiterated their opinion that preemptive surgical removal of the thyroid gland remains the best option for children who possess the genetic mutation.

If you’re concerned about the risk of thyroid cancer and treatment options for younger patients, talk to a pediatric cancer specialist for a comprehensive discussion of the alternatives. Be sure to check back here each week for more of the thyroid health news you need.

Late Thyroid Cancer Diagnosis Linked to Insurance in the U.S.

A study conducted by the American Cancer Society found that uninsured, those covered by Medicaid, and black individuals are more likely than not to be diagnosed with thyroid cancer in the later stages of the disease. The study went on to detail that those covered by private insurance, on the other hand, are more likely to have their thyroid cancer diagnosed in the early stages, which greatly increases the chance of full recovery.

Uninsured patients are more likely to be diagnosed in Stage 3 or Stage 4 of their cancer, while patients with private insurance were more likely to be diagnosed in Stage 1. The study's authors concluded that patients without private insurance are not receiving optimum care and these patients' cancer screening and timely diagnosis is affected. The study also stated, however, that there was a strong possibility that late diagnosis of thyroid cancer could be a result of cultural problems or patient education.

What Should Patients Without Private Insurance Do to Test for Thyroid Cancer?

Sometimes mobile screening centers are likely to visit communities and offer free screening tests. Many local health departments may do the same and offer free screening on-site or at the clinic.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control also offers screening that reimburses participating health departments. Contact your state or local health department for more information on cancer screening programs.

Common Thyroid Cancer Screening Tests

Common screening tests for thyroid cancer often include neck palpation and examination by an experienced thyroid cancer surgeon. The accuracy of neck palpation as a screening test varies according to the surgeon's experience and skill in addition to the size of the mass, if one exists.

The American Cancer Society recommends screening for thyroid cancer by examination of the neck; palpation every 3 years in people that are between the ages of 21-40 years old and annually in people who are more than 40 years old.

An ultrasound to detect nodules may be ordered by the attending physician if there is reason to suspect a thyroid mass.

Benefits of Early Detection

The benefits of early detection can not be understated. Early detection of thyroid cancer has a profound impact on the patient's prognosis. Many studies have found a significantly higher survival rate as well an increased chance of full recovery in patients whose cancer was detected early by screening.

Talk to Your Doctor

If you have any questions or concerns about thyroid cancer, it is highly recommended that you speak to a professional. And check back here for more thyroid cancer news.

Is it My Thyroid Gland?

The tiny thyroid gland plays a major role in regulating everything from our energy levels to our memory. If you’re a woman over the age of 30 and you’ve been experiencing unusual symptoms that you just can’t explain, the chances are good that your thyroid gland may be playing some part in the problem.

The small, butterfly-shaped thyroid gland may measure a miniscule two inches in diameter, but even minor fluctuations in its function can cause a staggeringly wide array of health problems.

What is the function of the Thyroid Gland?

The primary function of the thyroid gland is the production and distribution of the thyroid hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). Even slight variances in the amount of these thyroid hormones can produce problems in virtually all of the major organ groups and body systems.

What are the Thyroid Disorders?

The two major types of thyroid disorders are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism is characterized by a lack of adequate thyroid hormones in the body, and it causes a system-wide slowdown that can leave you sluggish, exhausted, depressed, and overweight.

Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, comes about when the thyroid is thrown into overdrive and produces an excess of the thyroid hormones. This surplus speeds up many aspects of the body’s normal functions, resulting in anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, and rapid weight loss.

Who is at Risk?

Women are at the greatest risk of developing hypothyroidism. Although the disorder is relatively rare among women in their twenties, it is not entirely unheard, so don’t rule hypothyroidism out if you are a young woman who has been experiencing prolonged fatigue and exhaustion for no apparent reason.

However, while hypothyroidism remains a relatively rare occurrence among younger women, it is very common among their older counterparts. It is believed that over ten percent of all women over the age of 60 have some level of underactivity in their thyroid function and thyroid hormone production. Many of these cases go undiagnosed, perhaps in part due to the fact that many of the symptoms of hypothyroidism mirror common signs of aging and menopause.

Low Thyroid Function (Hypothyroidism) and its Symptoms

If you just aren’t feeling like your energetic old self these days, you might have hypothyroidism, the disorder that results from an underactive thyroid gland and a lack of adequate levels of thyroid hormone. Every patient with hypothyroidism experiences symptoms differently, but in general, the disorder tends to manifest itself in lethargy, fatigue, weight gain, and feelings of sadness and hopelessness.

Common Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

In addition to lethargy, depression, and weight gain, other common symptoms that may indicate low thyroid function include dry skin and hair, intolerance for cold temperatures, and menstrual abnormalities. Mood swings, memory loss, swallowing difficulties, swelling in the neck area, and voice hoarseness may also indicate a problem stemming from low thyroid function.

High Thyroid (Hyperthyroidism) and its Symptoms

Though it is far less common than hypothyroidism, an overactive thyroid gland – also known as hyperthyroidism – may also cause a number of strange and troubling symptoms. The good news is that hyperthyroidism is generally much easier to diagnose than is hypothyroidism, due to the fact that the striking symptoms associated with the disorder are very unique and are often grouped together in ways that are obvious to experienced physicians.

With a surplus of thyroid hormone in the body, hyperthyroidism speeds up many of the body’s normal functions. Heart palpitations and rapid heartbeats are a common sign of the disorder. Patients might experience a sudden intolerance for heat, even when others don’t feel hot at all.

Common Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism

Disruptions in appetite and normal eating habits are common in hyperthyroidism, as is rapid weight loss without any significant reduction in calorie intake. Irritability and emotional volatility are also common signs, and patients with the disorder are often known to “fly off the handle” with little or no provocation.

Vision problems are another common symptom of hyperthyroidism. Patients with the disorder often develop a characteristic look of bulging eyes and an unblinking, fixed gaze that is sometimes referred to by doctors as the “thyroid stare.” Menstrual irregularities and infertility are also common, and patients with hyperthyroidism also often complain of muscle weakness, spasms, and cramps.

Talk to a Doctor

If you have experienced any of these symptoms, you should talk to a doctor who has experience in diagnosing and treating thyroid disorders and request a full evaluation. The good news is that a return to full health is often possible as long as you stick closely to your prescribed regimen of medication. Be sure to check back here each week for more thyroid news and information!

Newborn Baby’s Health Affected by Mom’s Thyroid Disorder

As recent as only a few short decades ago, questions emerged as to the relationship between developmental issues in babies and the thyroid disorder hypothyroidism. Researchers in Sweden recently conducted a study that focused on pregnant women with hypothyroidism and the possible effect on their unborn fetus.

According to the findings, the general results show that babies may be born with the thyroid disorder hypothyroidism when the mother is deficient in thyroid hormone. The results of the study are important because the team concluded that treatment for the mother’s thyroid hormone deficiencies within the early stages of pregnancy, before the developing fetus can produce its own supply of thyroid hormone, can limit or even prevent any mental or loco motor impairment that the baby may develop as a result of thyroid hormone deficiency.

Thyroid deficiency – hypothyroidism – effect on the fetus

During the first few months of pregnancy, the fetus relies on the mother for production of thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone plays an important part in the development of normal brain function. According to findings published in the New England Journal of Medicine, babies born to mothers with hypothyroidism during pregnancy had lowered IQ results.

Researchers stress the importance of thyroid tests for pregnant women.

As many as twenty-seven million Americans suffer from undiagnosed thyroid disorders. And nearly half of every fifty women who become pregnant in the U.S. may suffer from the thyroid disorder hypothyroidism. Researchers, therefore, stress the importance of a thyroid test for women who may be considering pregnancy or who are already pregnant.

Thyroid hormone test

The test for thyroid hormone deficiency is an easy and inexpensive blood test. The blood test is conducted in a hospital, doctor’s office or lab where technicians are trained to take blood. Only a small amount of blood is needed and the test is quick to administer. The blood test measures thyroid hormone T4 and TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone).

The test can help identify - and then treat health problems that could endanger both the mother and the baby. Some blood tests are administered routinely for all pregnancies, and others are done if the pregnancy is considered high-risk.

Talk to your doctor

If you think that you may be pregnant or are considering pregnancy, it is recommended that you talk to your doctor for a personalized assessment. Check back here for more thyroid health issues and news.

Thyroid Cancer and Obesity

Obesity has long been linked to various health problems such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. But only recently have studies shown a correlation between obesity and cancer. According to scientists’ estimates, deaths from obesity in the United States outnumbered those that were related to smoking.

The World Cancer Research Fund and the American Cancer Institute released a study that showed a link between obesity and many serious cancers such as throat, colon, rectum, kidney and breast.

Other studies have shown similar links between obesity and cancer. The doctors at the University of Manchester in northwestern England found that among men, every gain of five points in BMI – the body mass index – raised the risk of thyroid cancer by an astounding 33%.

These findings support the benefits of maintaining a healthy lifestyle which includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, and plenty of rest.

Types of Thyroid Cancer:

There are several types of thyroid cancer.

• Papillary carcinoma is among the most common and usually affects young women who are within their childbearing years.
• Follicular carcinoma represents nearly 30% of all thyroid cancer cases and has a greater rate of recurrence and metastasis.
• Medullary carcinoma is a cancer of non-thyroid cells in the thyroid gland and tends to occur within families who are genetically predisposed to this type of cancer.
• Anaplastic carcinoma is the most malignant type of thyroid cancer. It is a very aggressive cancer and metastasizes quickly to nearby structures. Although rare, it does respond to radio active iodone therapy.

Consult a health care professional

If you have any concerns about your thyroid or cancer, it is highly recommended that you consult a health care professional. Thyroid cancer is best addressed with a comprehensive treatment plan.

Check Your Neck: Common Symptoms of Thyroid Disorders

In spite of the fact that it measures less than two inches in size, the thyroid gland plays a remarkably significant part in human health. Because of its central role in the endocrine system, which regulates the production and distribution of hormones in the body, even a minor glitch in thyroid function can cause major health problems.

Most people associate thyroid problems with metabolism, energy levels, and weight gain. While it’s true that these symptoms are common signs of one type of thyroid disorder, they represent only the proverbial tip of the iceberg when it comes to thyroid-related health problems.

Recent estimates indicate that over 20 million people in the United States alone suffer from some type of thyroid disorder. In addition, it is believed that 2 million people may have undiagnosed thyroid problems. When left untreated, thyroid disorders can result in major health disruptions, and, in severe cases, can even prove to be fatal.

On the other hand, when thyroid disorders are properly diagnosed and treated, they can often be satisfactorily controlled with daily medication, causing little or no long-term reduction of overall health or quality of life. The keys to maintaining your health with a thyroid disorder are early detection, constant vigilance, and consistent treatment.

If you feel like you or a loved one might be at risk for developing a thyroid disorder, it’s important to keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms that could be a sign of a problem. This week, we’ll take a look at some of the most common symptoms of thyroid disorders.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

The disorder known as hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland is underactive and is thus unable to produce the amount of thyroid hormone that the body needs. Over time, insufficient levels of thyroid hormones can set off a chain reaction of chemical imbalances in the body, wreaking havoc on every major organ system and drastically impacting overall health.

Initially, hypothyroidism tends to manifest itself as a few annoying symptoms, such as fatigue or a lack of energy. In some cases, the thyroid hormone imbalance is so minor that you might not notice any symptoms at all. However, over time, untreated hypothyroidism can result in a number of adverse health problems, including obesity, heart disease, debilitating joint pain, and infertility.

Although cases of hypothyroidism have been documented in virtually every age group, women over the age of 50 stand the greatest risk of developing this disorder. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s important that you schedule a consultation with your doctor as soon as possible. Thyroid disorders are usually relatively easy to diagnose with just a few outpatient tests.

Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

• fatigue, weakness, and exhaustion
• feeling lethargic and listless
• feelings of depression or hopelessness
• difficulty focusing and concentrating
• a sense of being in a mental fog
• sudden weight gain with no significant change in eating habits
• extreme difficulty losing weight or maintaining a weight loss
• skin problems, including itchiness, dryness, and coarse texture
• a change in hair texture, especially sudden frizziness and dryness
• hair loss or thinning hair
• constant feelings of coldness, no matter what the temperature is
• digestive difficulties, including indigestion and constipation
• muscle pains and cramps
• menstrual difficulties
• heavier, longer, and more frequent periods and cramps
• infertility or miscarriage

Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism

Although hypothyroidism is the most common form of thyroid disorder, the opposite condition – hyperthyroidism – is also a significant health problem. Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland is too active, causing an overabundance of thyroid hormone in the body.

Just as hypothyroidism slows down many bodily functions, hyperthyroidism has precisely the reverse effect – it actually boosts the metabolism and speeds up many processes within the body. Although the prospect of a speedy metabolism may sound like a good thing to those of us who are trying to lose weight, this condition can actually wreak havoc and seriously impair health.

Whereas hypothyroidism sometimes goes undetected, especially in people with mild symptoms, hyperthyroidism is often harder to miss. That is, it is often easier to notice the change in health and behavior that accompanies the onset of hyperthyroidism. However, many patients with this disorder still have to undergo several rounds of tests and other diagnostic processes before the true source of the problem is pinpointed.

Common symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:

• anxiousness and nervousness
• panic attacks
• rapid mood swings and irritability
• hard-to-control perspiration and body odor
• hair brittleness and breakage
• weak and jittery muscles, limbs, and extremities
• sleep difficulties and insomnia
• heart palpitations
• frequent bowel movements
• sudden weight loss with no change in appetite or eating patterns
• light, infrequent menstrual periods
• bulging eyes
• a frequent feeling of being out of breath
• constant feelings of being too hot, regardless of the weather

The good news is that hyperthyroidism can often be corrected with a simple course of medication. Soon after a prescription drug regimen is started, many, if not all, of the symptoms of the disorder will begin to subside.

If you suspect that you might be at risk for hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, please speak with your doctor. And don’t forget to check back each week for more of the thyroid health news you need!

Thyroid Disease and Depression

Living with thyroid disease may be a frustrating challenge, but compound the disease with depression, and it gets more difficult to deal with. When thyroid hormone levels are too low, a condition called hypothyroidism, patients report that they feel fatigued and may suffer from weight gain. In addition, constipation may result causing patients to feel bloated. Straining to pass stool can cause hemorrhoids and cramps. Add depression to the mix, and a patient can feel outright miserable.

Hypothyroidism Diagnosis

The symptoms are so varied. The only way to know for sure if a patient is suffering from hypothyroidism is to perform a blood test. TSH - thyroid stimulating hormone test - and T4 tests are the two blood tests that are used in the diagnosis of hypothyroidism. A physician could also look for dry skin, swelling, slower reflexes and a slower heart rate.

There is no cure for hypothyroidism. But fortunately, it is easy to treat. An endocrinologist will most likely prescribe medication to replace the amount of hormone that your thyroid gland can no longer make. The goal will be to bring your T4 and TSH levels back to normal levels. A simple pill-a-day lifetime hormone replacement can relieve uncomfortable symptoms. Determining the right dosage may require experimentation on the part of the endocrinologist. This can lead to frustration on the part of the patient, but with the right balance, symptoms could disappear.

Depression Signs and Symptoms

Depression can take many signs. Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, a feeling of sad, helplessness or hopelessness with or without crying spells are among a few of the symptoms. In addition, sleep deprivation, changes in weight, fatigue or slow body movements, less interest in sex and thoughts of death. Children and teens may react differently to depression and symptoms may vary. If you feel sad, helpless, or consistently tired, it is recommended that you see a health care professional.

Hypothyroidism - A Common Glandular Disorder

After diabetes, thyroid disease is the most common glandular disorder. Hypothyroidism - underactive thyroid - is twice as prevalent as over active thyroid glands - also called hyperthyroidism. Up to twenty percent of all chronic depression patients have been found to have low thyroid hormones.

A University of North Carolina study found that among women with decreased thyroid function, the rate of those that suffered depression was almost three times as great. Unfortunately, most patients who suffer from depression do not first get their thyroid tested.

Thyroid or Depression Concerns?

If you are concerned about your thyroid or are experiencing any symptoms that lead you to believe you might be suffering from hypothyroidism or depression, talk to a doctor for a personalized assessment.

Concerns Arise Over Workplace and Occupational Health Issues

For better or for worse, work is a major part of the daily lives of most adults. Economic demands dictate that over 138 million Americans work full-time jobs outside the home. That means that more than 66% of all American adults spend more of their waking hours in an office, a manufacturing plant, or another workplace environment than in their own homes.

Ironically, the heyday of gadgets such as laptops and cell phones seems to have ushered in an era of grueling work schedules. These technologies were initially thought to promise workers more freedom and convenience, but instead, the amount of time the average adult dedicates to work is greater today than at any other time in recent history

Although a highly productive workforce may be great for the nation's economy, it appears to be exacting a serious toll upon public health. A wide array of "lifestyle diseases" has emerged in recent decades that appear to be caused or worsened by Americans' work-related stress and hectic schedules.

In addition to work-related stress, many occupational diseases are at an all-time high. These are conditions that are caused by exposure to dangerous chemicals, substances, or conditions in the workplace. This week, we'll take a look at the threats posed by two common occupational illnesses.

Occupational Risks to Thyroid Health

Over the last several decades, evidence has begun to emerge suggesting that there may be a connection between occupational exposure to certain substances and thyroid diseases, including cancer and autoimmune thyroid disorder.

In 2005, researchers at the Institute of Epidemiology and Social Medicine in Greifswald, Germany published the results of a study that found a connection between exposure to occupational hazards and thyroid autoimmune disorders.

In the research, it was found that workers whose jobs involved a risk of exposure to ionizing radiation were at higher risk of developing autoimmune thyroid disease. Female workers who reported a history of on-the-job exposure to ionizing radiation were at particularly high risk of developing signs of thyroid autoimmunity. The researchers also suggested that these results may be an indication that occupational exposure may be the "missing link" that explains the sharp increase in the prevalence of thyroid autoimmune disorders over the last several decades.

Another study, conducted by researchers in the Department of Oncology at the University Hospital of Umea, Sweden, sought to identify the occupational risk factors associated with thyroid cancer. Like thyroid autoimmune disorder, the incidence of thyroid cancer cases have skyrocketed in recent years, prompting some scientists to surmise that environmental factors -- including exposure to dangerous substances in the workplace -- may be to blame.

After analyzing the health data and work histories of a number of thyroid cancer patients, the researchers identified a number of risk factors that seemed to place workers at greater risk of developing the disease. Chief among these risk factors were occupational exposure to electromagnetic fields and industrial chemicals. In addition, workers who had a history of tobacco use further increased their risk of developing thyroid cancer.

Taken together, these results indicate that occupational exposure to dangerous substances or conditions can have a significant impact on thyroid health.

Occupational Risks of Asbestos Exposure

Although cases of thyroid illnesses related to occupational risk factors have become increasingly prevalent in recent years, asbestos-related illnesses have long ranked among the most common -- and deadly -- occupational illnesses.

In fact, an epidemiological study conducted by researchers at the Australian National University indicated that current estimates of the impact of asbestos-related illnesses may be too conservative. The lead researcher, Dr. Mark Clements, argues that current models of occupational exposures to asbestos may have vastly underestimated the public health implications of the problem.

It has long been believed that the high point of asbestos-related illnesses has already come and gone. However, according to Clements' analysis, the peak of asbestos-related diseases may still be in the future. His research indicates that the true prevalence of asbestos-related illnesses may be as much as 30-40 times greater than previously estimated, and most of these cases can ultimately be traced back to on-the-job exposure to the substance.

If you're concerned about the risk of occupational illnesses, talk to your doctor for a personalized assessment of the unique health risks your job may pose. Please check back each week for more of the thyroid health news you need.

Rare Forms of Cancer See Dramatic Increase over Last Decade - Mesothelioma and Thyroid Cancer

Thanks to significant advances in medical technology, cancer rates have declined significantly in recent years. In fact, according to a study conducted by the National Cancer Institute, the overall rate of cancer incidence has declined an average of 1% per year over the last several decades.

However, in stark contrast to the general decline in cancer rates, several types of cancer have seen a dramatic increase during the same period such as thyroid cancer and mesothelioma. Some of the cancers that have undergone an inexplicable increase in incidence have been rare forms of the disease that were once little-known and rarely diagnosed.

Mesothelioma and Thyroid Cancer

This week, we'll take a look at mesothelioma and thyroid cancer, both once relatively rare forms of the disease that have bucked the overall trend in declining cancer rates, instead beginning to be diagnosed more frequently now than they were in the past.

What is Mesothelioma?

This rare form of cancer is often related to exposure to the insulating material asbestos, which was widely used in both residential and commercial construction until the late 1970s. Although mesothelioma has been known to occur in patients who have not been exposed to asbestos, it is much more common among people who have histories of high-level asbestos exposure, often as a result of their occupations.

The most common form of mesothelioma is known as malignant pleural mesothelioma, which accounts for almost 70% of all known cases of this form of cancer. Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a cancer that attacks the cells in the pleura, which is the medical term for the special tissue that forms the lining of the lungs and the chest cavity.

Asbestos-related cases of malignant pleural mesothelioma occur when the small fibers travel into the small passageways leading into and out of the lungs, as well as the pleural tissue. Over time, the presence of the asbestos sets off a series of chemical reactions, the exact nature of which scientists have not yet been able to determine. These reactions spark cancerous cell growth in the area, causing the cells in the region to grow abnormally.

This abnormal cell growth, in turn, can result in the thickening of the pleural tissue and, eventually, to the accumulation of excess fluid in the region. The consequences of the thickening and fluid accumulation are the painful symptoms that are most closely related to malignant pleural mesothelioma, namely, respiratory difficulty, shortness of breath, chest pain, and intense pressure.

Over the course of the last decade, malignant pleural mesothelioma has been one of the only types of rare cancers to actually see an increase in diagnosis rates. Although the exact causes of this alarming trend have not yet been definitively identified, scientists believe that it may be due to the peak in asbestos-related exposures several decades ago.

What is Thyroid Cancer?

The often-overlooked thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped organ that is located at the base of the neck. When the thyroid gland is functioning properly, it rarely figures in the way we assess our own health or well-being. However, when thyroid function goes awry, it can significantly impede the body's ability to function. This is due to the fact that the tiny thyroid gland plays a major role in regulating the production and distribution of hormones within the body.

Cancer of the thyroid occurs when malignant abnormal cell growth is seen in or around the thyroid gland. Malignancy is a key factor in diagnosing thyroid cancer, because non-cancerous abnormal cell growth often results in thyroid nodules, which are an entirely different type of disorder.

Overall rates of thyroid cancers have seen an alarming spike over the last decade. According to public health data, the rate of thyroid cancer diagnosis almost doubled in some parts of the United States between 1990 and 2000. In fact, diagnoses of thyroid cancer are now outpacing many other types of the disease that were once thought to be far more common.

Scientists around the world are working to unravel the mystery of thyroid cancer's rapid rise. Some have theorized that environmental factors such as radiation, pollutants, or toxins may be to blame for the trend. Others have argued that the increase in the number of thyroid cancer cases is a result of more sophisticated medical technology that allows for earlier and more reliable diagnosis of the disease.

As with all forms of cancer, the earlier a diagnosis can be made, the better the outlook for the patient. If you have concerns about malignant pleural mesothelioma or thyroid cancer, talk to your doctor for a personalized risk profile. Be sure to mention any history of exposure to radiation or asbestos. Don't forget to check back each week for more of the medical news you need!

For Further Reading

• http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/thyroid

• http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/bv.fcgi?indexed=google&rid=inserm2.section.665

• http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Sites-Types/mesothelioma