Friday, October 16, 2026
September marks Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, an opportunity to raise awareness about one of the most common cancers affecting the endocrine system. Education can help people recognize potential warning signs, understand risk factors and learn more about the importance of evaluation and treatment.
Located at the base of the neck, the butterfly-shaped gland produces hormones that help regulate metabolism, heart rate, body temperature and other important functions. Thyroid cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the gland grow uncontrollably.
There are several types of thyroid cancer, with papillary thyroid cancer being the most common. Other types include follicular, medullary and anaplastic thyroid cancers.
According to the American Cancer Society, thyroid cancer is diagnosed more often in women than men and can occur at any age, although certain types are more common among specific age groups. Learning about the thyroid and potential risk factors can help people recognize changes that warrant medical attention.
Thyroid cancer does not always cause symptoms in its early stages, but there are signs that should be discussed with a health care professional. One of the most common warning signs is a lump or nodule in the neck. Other possible symptoms include swelling in the neck, persistent hoarseness or changes in the voice, difficulty swallowing or breathing and pain in the front of the neck that may extend toward the ears.
Most thyroid nodules are not cancerous, but a new or growing lump should still be evaluated. A health care provider may examine the neck, and, if necessary, order imaging tests or a biopsy to determine the cause of the thyroid nodule. Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month serves as a reminder that changes in the neck should not automatically be dismissed, particularly when they persist or worsen.
Thyroid cancer has several types, and treatment depends on factors including the type of cancer, its stage and whether it has spread to other parts of the body. Treatment may include surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid, radioactive iodine treatment, thyroid hormone therapy, targeted therapies or, in some cases, radiation chemotherapy.
The American Cancer Society reports that people diagnosed with thyroid cancer generally have a favorable prognosis, particularly when the disease is detected before it has spread. However, treatment and follow-up care can vary significantly from one patient to another.
After treatment, patients may need regular blood tests, imaging and thyroid hormone medication. Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month encourages people to learn about the disease, recognize potential symptoms and maintain regular conversations with their health care providers about any concerning changes.
