Fact 6: Environmental Factors
Papillary thyroid cancer is not only about genetics and gender; environmental factors too can influence its onset. Notably, exposure to radiation, especially during childhood or adolescence, can significantly increase the risk of developing this disease.
Radiation exposure could result from various sources including medical treatments or environmental disasters such as nuclear accidents. Those who have undergone radiation therapy for other types of cancers in the head or neck are at an elevated risk.
This fact underlines the need for careful use of radiation in medical treatments, especially among children and adolescents. It’s also a reminder of the importance of long-term follow-up and monitoring of individuals exposed to significant radiation.
However, it’s crucial to remember that while radiation exposure increases risk, most people with papillary thyroid cancer have no history of exposure to radiation. It serves to reinforce that the causes of papillary thyroid cancer are multifaceted and not confined to a single factor. (6)
