Thyroid Cancer Statistics and Facts
The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2007, 33,550 new cases of thyroid cancer will be diagnosed in the United States, most of them in women. Specifically, it's estimated that 25,480 cases will be diagnosed in women, and 8,070 in men.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.
An estimated 1,500 people will die of thyroid cancer during 2007. 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%.
An estimated 880 women and 650 men (1,530 total) will die of thyroid cancer during 2007.
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.
The Thyroid Neck Check
To underscore the importance of early detection, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) is encouraging 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.
2007 Thyroid Cancer Survivors' Conference
Each year in the fall, the Thyroid Cancer Survivors' Association (ThyCa), holds its international conference. The 10th annual conference will be held October 19-21, 2007 at the Sofitel San Francisco Bay Hotel in Redwood City, Calif.The 2007 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.
Ernest L. Mazzaferri, M.D., thyroid cancer specialist who is past President of the American Thyroid Association (ATA) and part of the task force that developed ATA's official clinical guidelines, will be one of more than 25 physician speakers. Other speakers will include specialists in coping skills and well-being. In addition, support group roundtables will give opportunities for survivors and caregivers to share their experiences and hear from others coping with thyroid cancer. A complete list of speakers is available online in PDF format, More information on the conference, including registration information, is 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
Mary Shomon, About.com's Thyroid Guide since 1997, is a nationally-known patient advocate and best-selling author of 10 books on health, including "The Thyroid Hormone Breakthrough: Overcoming Sexual and Hormonal Problems at Every Age," "The Thyroid Diet: Manage Your Metabolism for Lasting Weight Loss," "Living Well With Hypothyroidism: What Your Doctor Doesn't Tell You...That You Need to Know," "Living Well With Graves' Disease and Hyperthyroidism," "Living Well With Autoimmune Disease," "Living Well With Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia," and the "Thyroid Guide to Hair Loss." Click here for more information on Mary Shomon.
