While thyroid cancer is generally associated with women, it affects men as well, albeit at a lower rate. While the condition has received much attention in the context of female patients, it is important to shine light on the problems, myths, and advances in treating thyroid cancer in men.
According to Cancer Research UK, men are more likely than women to develop thyroid cancer as they get older. It is more common in men aged 70 to 74.
Dr V V S Prabhakar Rao, Head – Medical Services, Sr Consultant Nuclear Medicine (Iodine Therapy), HCG Cancer Centre, Vizag, explains about the thyroid cancer in men.
What Is Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer is a malignancy that originates in the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped organ located in the neck. This disparity in incidence highlights the need for a closer examination of thyroid cancer in men.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Delayed Diagnosis
One of the most significant issues among men with thyroid cancer is delayed detection. The illness is frequently disregarded in men due to the misconception that it primarily affects women. This delay may cause the disease to progress to more severe stages, affecting treatment options and overall prognosis.
Aggressive Presentation
The National Library of Medicine suggests that thyroid cancer in men may be more aggressive than in women. Men tend to present with larger tumours, more lymph node involvement, and a higher likelihood of distant metastases. These factors can complicate treatment strategies and necessitate more aggressive approaches.
Also read: How Do Thyroid Problems Lead To Other Problems In Your Body?
Dispelling Myths and Misconceptions
Thyroid Cancer is Only a Woman's Issue
According to Dr Rao, the most prevalent myth is that thyroid cancer exclusively affects women. In reality, men are at risk too, and any unusual changes in the thyroid should not be ignored based on gender assumptions.
Lump Equals Cancer
“Not all thyroid nodules are cancerous. In fact, the majority are benign. It's crucial to remember that a lump in the neck doesn't necessarily indicate cancer, but it should prompt a medical evaluation,” Dr Rao stated.
Low Risk for Men
“While the risk of thyroid cancer is indeed lower for men, it is not negligible. Factors like genetics, exposure to radiation, and certain hereditary conditions can increase the risk for men. It's important for people to understand their personal risk factors and take appropriate actions”, Dr Rao explained.
Advancements in Treatment
Precision Medicine
Treatment that is tailored to the genetic makeup of the cancer is gaining popularity. Precision medicine is a technique that allows for more tailored therapy and potentially improved treatment outcomes. Genetic testing can assist in identifying specific mutations that can help guide treatment options.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Advances in surgical techniques, such as robotic and endoscopic procedures, have enabled more precise and minimally invasive thyroid surgeries. These techniques offer shorter recovery times and reduced scarring.
Radioactive Iodine Therapy
“Radioactive iodine therapy remains a standard treatment for thyroid cancer. Innovations in this approach, including the use of recombinant human thyrotropin to enhance the effectiveness of radioactive iodine, have improved outcomes for patients,” Dr Rao concluded.
Also read: Thyroid Problems In Women: Is There Any Specific Age?
Thyroid cancer in men is a topic that requires greater attention and understanding. By dispelling myths, promoting awareness, and staying updated on the latest treatment advancements, we can improve outcomes.
Timely diagnosis, personalised treatment approaches, and collaborative efforts are key in navigating the challenges posed by thyroid cancer in men. It's time to shift the spotlight onto this often-overlooked aspect of the disease and pave the way for better care and outcomes.
