A UK-based doctor has issued a warning about an illness that was once considered rare but is now becoming increasingly common. The disease, which can have fatal consequences if not detected early, is thyroid cancer.
Dr Ahmed, a GP, stated that it was “previously very rare” to encounter thyroid cancer, but it’s become “more common”. He noted that he’s seeing more of his patients being diagnosed with the condition.
Thyroid cancer is a rare disease characterised by abnormal cell growth in the thyroid gland. Dr Ahmed cautioned his TikTok followers that this type of cancer is “on the rise”, and case numbers are expected to increase “more than any other type of cancer” over the next five years.
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He highlighted some red flag symptoms to watch out for, including a small lump in the lower neck that grows larger over time, difficulty swallowing, and a feeling like something is pressing against the neck. There are also rarer symptoms caused by thyroid issues that could indicate cancer, such as a persistently flushed red face, looser than normal stools, or unexplained weight loss.
If you notice any of these signs, Dr Ahmed advises seeking medical attention immediately. Early detection of cancer increases the chances of successful treatment, reports the Mirror.
Cancer Research UK states that a series of tests are typically conducted to check for thyroid cancer. If diagnosed, these tests can assist your doctor in determining the appropriate treatment.
Thyroid cancer is more prevalent in women than men during their reproductive years, peaking between the ages of 40 and 44 in women. In contrast, men are more likely to develop thyroid cancer between the ages of 70 and 74.
Surgery is the most common treatment for thyroid cancer, but healthcare professionals will discuss if other methods may be suitable depending on your overall health and the stage, location, and size of the cancer.