Risk factor 8. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis – Autoimmunity and Thyroid Cancer
Next on our list is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland. This chronic attack leads to inflammation and eventually can cause hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones. But how does Hashimoto’s connect to thyroid cancer risk?
The relationship between Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and thyroid cancer has been a subject of intense study and debate. Some studies suggest that individuals with Hashimoto’s have a slightly higher risk of thyroid cancer, specifically papillary thyroid cancer.
The proposed mechanism behind this association relates to the continuous inflammation and regeneration of thyroid cells that occur in Hashimoto’s. These processes could lead to DNA damage and subsequent cancer development.
However, it’s crucial to remember that while the risk may be slightly increased, the absolute risk of developing thyroid cancer is still relatively low. For individuals diagnosed with Hashimoto’s, the focus should be on managing hypothyroidism symptoms and regular monitoring of thyroid health, rather than an overwhelming concern about thyroid cancer. (8)
