Most cases of thyroid cancer cannot be prevented, as there are usually no known risk factors. However, there are some steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing thyroid cancer. Radiation exposure, especially in childhood, is a known risk factor for thyroid cancer, so doctors no longer use radiation to treat less serious illnesses. Taking KI within the first few hours of exposure to radioactive iodine can help protect the thyroid from the risk of thyroid cancer.
The best chance that thyroid cancer will be cured is to start therapy when the cancer starts to grow. The sooner you receive proper care, the sooner you can resume a healthy lifestyle. Adults and children with an inherited genetic mutation that increases the risk of medullary thyroid cancer may consider having thyroid surgery to prevent cancer (prophylactic thyroidectomy). Celiac disease is three times more common in people with autoimmune thyroid disease such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease.
Your doctor may recommend regular blood tests or thyroid scans to check for signs of recurrence of thyroid cancer. People with a normal risk of thyroid cancer can reduce their radiation exposure during childhood by avoiding unnecessary medical tests that use radiation. If you have one of these genetic mutations, you may choose to have surgery to remove your thyroid before you are diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Scientists aren't entirely sure what causes thyroid cancer, but some things that can increase your chances of getting it include a family history of Hashimoto's thyroiditis or Graves' disease, or a genetic mutation that increases the risk of medullary thyroid cancer.
If you have a family history of these conditions, your doctor may want to have your thyroid hormone levels tested annually. Although it is not possible to prevent most cases of thyroid cancer, understanding the symptoms and seeking treatment as soon as possible is the best way to ensure a successful outcome. Taking steps to reduce radiation exposure during childhood and having regular check-ups if you have a family history of autoimmune diseases can also help reduce your risk.
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