There are a few signs that you could be dealing with a ‘previously very rare’ condition
A doctor has warned that people need to be aware of a once-rare illness that is becoming more common. Some of the symptoms can easily be dismissed and could lead to fatal consequences.
Dr Ahmed, a UK-based GP, said it was “previously very rare” to get thyroid cancer but it’s become “more common”. He went on to say he’s seeing more of his own patients getting diagnosed.
Thyroid cancer is a rare disease that occurs when abnormal cells in the thyroid gland grow out of control. He warned his TikTok followers that this type of cancer is “on the rise”, adding that case numbers are predicted to grow “more than any other type of cancer” over the next five years.
The medical expert said there are some red flag symptoms you can be on the lookout for. The most common sign is a small lump in your lower neck that gets larger over time.
Other common signs include:
Dr Ahmed said there are plenty of other rarer symptoms that can be caused by a thyroid issue and may point to cancer. He said anyone with a persistently flushed red face, looser than normal stools or unexplained weight loss should get these checked out.
If you notice any of these, you should see your doctor immediately. The earlier a cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat it and the more likely the treatment will be successful.
According to Cancer Research UK, you usually have a number of tests to check for thyroid cancer. If you have cancer these tests can also help your doctor decide what treatment you need.
Thyroid cancer is more common in women than in men during their reproductive years. It peaks in women between the ages of 40 and 44 whilst men are more likely to develop thyroid cancer when aged between 70 and 74.
Surgery is the most common treatment for thyroid cancer. Healthcare professionals will discuss if other methods may work for you – depending on your general health and the stage/location/size of the cancer.