Thyroid Cancer Statistics and Facts
The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2008, 37,340 new cases of thyroid cancer will be diagnosed in the United States, most of them in women. That's up from 33,550 in 2007.An estimated 1,590 people will die of thyroid cancer during 2008. Thyroid cancer is, however, considered one of the least deadly and most survivable cancers, and 5-year survival rates for thyroid cancer is almost 97%.
Thyroid cancer is more common in younger people, and nearly two-thirds of those diagnosed with thyroid cancer are between the ages of 20 and 55.
Thyroid cancer is one of the few cancers on the rise in recent years, with a growth rate of about 6% a year since 1997. Many experts believe that the increase is primarily due to greater use of thyroid ultrasound, which is better able to detect previously malignant thyroid nodules that, in the past, likely went undetected.
The Thyroid Neck Check
To underscore the importance of early detection, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) encourages Americans to perform a simple self-exam they call the "Thyroid Neck Check." Examining your neck can in some cases help you find lumps or enlargements in the neck that may point to thyroid conditions, including nodules, goiter and thyroid cancer.To detect a thyroid abnormality early, or lumps that may indicate potential thyroid cancer, follow these steps to perform your own "Thyroid Neck Check:"
1. Stand in front of a mirror
2. Stretch neck back
3. Swallow water
4. Look for enlargement in neck (below the Adam's Apple, above the collar bone)
5. Feel area to confirm enlargement or bump
6. If any problem is detected, see an doctor
Note: The "Neck Check" is not conclusive. A thorough examination by a physician is needed to diagnose or rule out thyroid cancer.
2008 Thyroid Cancer Survivors' Conference
Each year in the fall, the Thyroid Cancer Survivors' Association (ThyCa), holds its international conference. The 11th annual conference will be held October 17-19, 2008 at the Sheraton Westport Hotel/Lakeside Chalet in St. Louis, Missouri.The 2008 event will feature more than 80 sessions, including presentations on the latest medical research, insurance and employment issues, how to cope with thyroid cancer, and an opportunity to share information and support with others living with thyroid cancer.
A complete list of confirmed speakers is available online in PDF format, More information on the conference, including registration information, is available online (PDF).
Signup information for the 2008 Thyroid Cancer Survivor's Conference is also available online.
Sources:
National Cancer Institute -- Thyroid Cancer Page
What You Need to Know About Thyroid Cancer, National Cancer Institute
American Cancer Society: Thyroid Cancer Guide
