Thyroid Cancer Causes & Risk Factors

Radiation exposure is the most well-known risk factor for the development of thyroid cancer. However, the majority of patients who are diagnosed have no clear known risk factor. Females are about three times as likely to develop thyroid cancer as males. Full Answer

Your physician will ask questions about your risk factors for thyroid cancer. Features that make surgeons more suspicious of a nodule are rapid growth, family history of thyroid cancer, family history of a condition known as Multiple Endocrine... Full Answer

Current research indicates that thyroid cancer isn't inherited from parents. But, in this video, Eric Genden, MD, chairman of the department of otolaryngology at The Mount Sinai Medical Center, explains how genetics might play a role in treatment. Full Answer

Some people think the increase in thyroid cancer is due to the thinning ozone layer. In this video, Eric Genden, MD, chairman of the department of otolaryngology at The Mount Sinai Medical Center, explains why that theory may not be valid. Full Answer

Thyroid cancer doesn’t seem to be inherited. Check out this video with Dr. Chad Spanos, an ear, nose and throat medical oncologist, to see what recent research says about who gets thyroid cancer and why. Full Answer

Not much is known about the causes of thyroid cancer. Thyroid cancer, like all cancers, results from the abnormal overgrowth of cells, which build up to form tumors. Certain genetic factors, like a family history of goiter or other thyroid conditions,... Full Answer

Some genetic thyroid disorders can lead to thyroid cancer. If goiters, or enlarging of the thyroid gland, run in your family, you should tell your doctor. If you are at a high risk for developing thyroid cancer due to your genetic makeup, your doctor may... Full Answer

If you have been exposed to radiation, you could be at risk for thyroid cancer. People who underwent radiation treatment for conditions such as acne may be at risk, as may those who have been exposed to nuclear radiation. Talk to your doctor if you think... Full Answer

The specific cause of thyroid cancer is not clear. However, some environmental conditions could lead to the disease. Some people with thyroid cancer may have developed the disease due to exposure to radiation used during childhood to treat acne or other... Full Answer

The risk factors for developing anaplastic thyroid are few and specific. The disease affects people aged 60 years and older. It affects more women than men. People who have a family history of goiters, which are swellings of the thyroid gland that are... Full Answer