Fact 8: Risk Factors for Thyroid Cancer
While anyone can get thyroid cancer, certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease. Some of these include gender, age, exposure to high levels of radiation, certain genetic conditions, and a family history of thyroid disease or cancer.
For instance, women are two to three times more likely than men to develop thyroid cancer. The reason behind this gender disparity is still under investigation, but hormonal differences may play a role. Additionally, thyroid cancer occurs most often in people aged 30 to 60.
Radiation exposure, particularly during childhood, is another significant risk factor. This can come from certain medical treatments or from nuclear fallout. Genetic predispositions also play a part in the development of thyroid cancer, with several genetic syndromes that increase the risk, including familial medullary thyroid cancer and familial adenomatous polyposis.
Despite these risk factors, it’s important to remember that most people who develop thyroid cancer have no known risk factors. Therefore, routine check-ups and awareness about potential symptoms are key. (8)
