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.