Thyroid Cancer Risk Factors

Thyroid Cancer Risk Factors

Genetics & Your Risk for Thyroid Cancer

Doctors have linked many forms of thyroid cancer to specific gene mutations. For example, medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is associated with an inherited mutation on the RET gene. There is a 50 percent chance that a parent who is a carrier of this genetic mutation will pass it on to their child.

However, it is possible to detect DNA mutations using a simple blood test. This may be recommended for individuals who have a family history of MTC. Genetic counseling can help you and your family decide when a DNA test is appropriate. Of course, it is your choice to get tested, but it is still important to discuss this decision with a doctor who is familiar with MTC and the genetic mutation.

The advancements in genetic testing have improved the ability to screen for thyroid cancer. Even so, many people who develop thyroid cancer have no known hereditary risk. Researchers continue to study the relationship between genetics and cancer and, as doctors learn more about the genetic thyroid cancer risk factors, they will be better able to assess an individual's risk for certain types of cancers.

In addition, understanding the genetic link may also lead to more ways to prevent thyroid cancer. Currently, some doctors recommend removing the thyroid gland in children who are found to have the inherited RET genetic mutation.

Understanding Thyroid Cancer Risk Factors

Doctors have come a long way in understanding what may cause thyroid cancers to develop. While researchers continue to investigate the causes of thyroid cancer, doctors have identified certain factors that may increase an individual's risk of developing thyroid cancer. Having one or more of these risk factors does not guarantee a person will develop thyroid cancer. Understanding thyroid cancer risk factors may help individuals better manage their personal health.

Common risk factors for thyroid cancer include:

• Gender & Age - More research is needed to understand why thyroid cancers are three times more prevalent in women than men. While these cancers can occur at any age, most cases of papillary and follicular thyroid cancer are found in people ages 20 to 60.

• Diets low in iodine - Many countries lack foods with proper amounts of iodine. This particular thyroid cancer risk may be lower in the United States because iodine is often added to table salt and certain processed foods.

• Radiation - Unnecessary exposure to radiation in childhood may increase an individual's risk for developing thyroid cancer. Years ago doctors used radiation as common treatments for shrinking tonsils and adenoids, as well as treating enlarged thymus glands, acne and fungal infections. This practice has subsided since more recent studies found that radiation exposure may actually cause thyroid cancer in children. Radiation exposure poses a much greater risk for young children compared to adults.

• Hereditary conditions - Doctors have linked one out of every five cases of MTC to the RET gene mutation, which is often inherited from a parent. These genetic mutations often cause MTC to develop during childhood or early adulthood. If other endocrine glands are also involved, the disease is then called multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2). Also, people with uncommon genetic conditions called Gardner syndrome, Cowden disease, and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) have an increased thyroid cancer risk.

Remember that having one or more these thyroid cancer risk factors does not guarantee you will develop the disease. It is best to discuss any possible risks with your doctor. Genetic testing or other exams may help you to better understand your individual thyroid cancer risk.

NOTE: Anything that increases your risk of getting a disease is called a risk factor. Having a risk factor does not mean that you will get cancer. Not having risk factors doesn’t mean that you will not get cancer. If you think you may be at risk, you should discuss it with your doctor.

Next Topic: Thyroid Cancer Symptoms