Unlike most cancers, thyroid cancer boasts an impressive 99% complete cure rate in most cases, making it a highly treatable condition. There's no need to panic if diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Located in the lower area of the neck, the thyroid gland consists of two lobes connected by a bridge. While tumors can develop in the lobes, most are benign, but some may be malignant or cancerous. Thyroid diseases can be either medical (related to thyroxine hormone secretion) or surgical (related to thyroid tumors). Thyroid cancer is more common in women and can occur at a younger age, unlike other cancers. Interestingly, age plays a role in thyroid cancer, with those under 55 develop less aggressive forms, while those over 55 face slightly more aggressive forms which are still curable.

Symptoms of Thyroid Tumor
Swelling in the lower aspect of neck, sometimes with difficulty in swallowing, including regurgitation and upward movement when swallowing (primary symptom)
Visible swelling without other noticeable issues‌. Absence of complications does not mean that the tumor is not cancerous.
Feeling of something stuck in the throat.
Hoarseness or voice changes
Breathing difficulties
Enlargement of nearby nodes or glands, even without visible thyroid gland swelling (requires investigation for potential tumor)

Types of thyroid cancer

Papillary thyroid cancer (80‌–85% of cases): mainly confined to the thyroid, but can spread to the neck glands and lungs if left untreated‌.
Follicular thyroid cancer (10% of cases): It tends to spread directly to the bones, rather than the neck nodes.

Other types are rare.

Expert Surgical Intervention Crucial for Complete Cure

Both papillary and follicular thyroid cancers are completely curable with surgery, with an impressive 99% success rate. However, skilled surgeons are essential for this procedure. Why? Because:
The thyroid gland must be removed while preserving the nearby nerve going to the larynx or voice box.
The parathyroid gland must also be saved to maintain proper calcium levels.
If the tumor is smaller than 1.5 cm, only the affected lobe needs to be removed, rather than the entire thyroid gland. While traditional surgery is common, robotic surgery is also an option in select cases. If cancer has spread to nearby nodes, they must be removed along with the thyroid gland.

Treatment after Surgery: Do You Need Chemo or Radiotherapy?

For papillary or follicular thyroid cancer, surgery is the primary treatment. Chemotherapy or radiotherapy are not necessary. However, radio ablation may be recommended to target any remaining cancer cells. This treatment typically takes only one or two days and involves taking oral iodine medication. The iodine helps destroy any cancerous cells that may have spread, effectively burning he affected area.

The Good News: Thyroid Cancer is Highly Curable

Unlike more aggressive cancers like lung, liver or pancreatic cancer, thyroid cancer is relatively mild. Even in cases where the cancer has spread in the body, cure is still possible with proper surgical intervention and radio ablation. Stay vigilant and don't ignore any suspicious symptoms. Early detection and treatment can make all the difference in achieving a successful outcome.