Thyroid cancer affects more than 300 people in Ireland each year, according to the Irish Cancer Society. The disease can often take years for medical professionals to diagnosis because of the way in which the symptoms overlap with other illnesses and conditions.

A recent study by the University of Aberdeen, in partnership with several leading thyroid charities, found that it takes an average of 4.5 years for a thyroid condition to be diagnosed.

The research, which analysed the experiences of nearly 1,200 patients, revealed that in almost two-thirds of cases, multiple appointments and a worsening of symptoms were required before a diagnosis was made. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, just in front of the windpipe.

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Thyroid cancer is more common amongst woman than men and is most prevalent in adults over the age of 40. The disease can be treated with surgery, radioactive iodine therapy and thyroid hormone therapy.

What is thyroid cancer?

The Irish Cancer Society says thyroid cancer is what "happens when cells in your thyroid change and start to grow in an abnormal way. A group of these cancer cells can form a tumour. Thyroid cancer can affect how your thyroid works and cause symptoms."

Symptoms of thyroid cancer

  • A painless or painful lump in your neck, which gradually gets bigger
  • Difficulty in swallowing or breathing
  • Changes to your voice, including hoarseness

All these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than cancer and most lumps in the front of the neck are not cancer. It’s still important to go to the GP and get any unusual changes checked out.

When to see your GP

Symptoms of an underactive thyroid are often like those of other conditions. They usually develop slowly, so you may not notice them for years.

Talk to your GP and ask to be tested for an underactive thyroid if you have symptoms including:

  • tiredness
  • weight gain
  • depression
  • feeling the cold more than usual
  • dry skin and hair
  • muscle aches

The only accurate way of finding out if you have a thyroid problem is to have a thyroid function test. This is where a sample of blood is tested to measure your hormone levels.

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