3. Family History and Genetic Factors: Unseen Threads of Risk
Family history and specific genetic factors also influence the risk of developing thyroid cancer. A family history of thyroid cancer, particularly in a first-degree relative such as a parent, sibling, or child, can double or triple your risk compared to those without such history. Additionally, certain hereditary syndromes, which involve mutations in specific genes, can increase the risk of thyroid cancer. These include familial adenomatous polyposis, Cowden disease, Carney complex type 1, and familial nonmedullary thyroid cancer, among others.
While many people with thyroid cancer do not have a known family history or identifiable genetic syndrome, it’s critical to discuss any such history with your healthcare provider. Genetic counseling and testing may be recommended in certain situations, especially if multiple family members have had thyroid cancer or if a person has been diagnosed with thyroid cancer at a young age.
For instance, a condition known as Familial Medullary Thyroid Cancer (FMTC), which is a subtype of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN), is characterized by a high propensity for the development of medullary thyroid cancer in affected individuals. Notably, mutations in the RET gene are involved, emphasizing the strong influence of genetics in some cases of thyroid cancer.
Similarly, Gardner’s syndrome, a variant of familial adenomatous polyposis, can lead to the development of various types of tumors, including thyroid cancer. In these cases, mutations in the APC gene are the culprits. When such conditions exist, surveillance for thyroid cancer becomes a part of the routine medical care for these patients. (3)
