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Thyroid Awareness Month
Understanding thyroid disorders and their symptoms
January is National Thyroid Awareness Month. According to the American Thyroid Association, 1 in 10 people suffer from a thyroid condition; however, 60 % of people are unaware of it. Therefore, it is important to recognize and spread awareness about a condition plaguing so many.
The thyroid is a butterfly shaped hormonal gland located in the neck. It plays a crucial role in a multitude of vital functions such as; metabolism, respiration, heart rate, body weight, cholesterol, muscle strength and maintain body temperature. The thyroid gland secretes hormones into the blood to be transported throughout the body to execute the desired function.
Thyroid disease occurs due to dysfunction of the gland. The most common thyroid conditions occur when it is overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism). Hyperthyroidism occurs when the body produces too many thyroid hormones, this condition can cause increased metabolism resulting in weight loss and irregular heart rate. Hypothyroidism occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, this impacts heart rate, body temperature and metabolism, resulting in fatigue, constipation, dry skin and weight gain.
Thyroid cancer begins when rapid and abnormal cell growth occurs on the thyroid gland. The biggest warning sign of thyroid cancer is a lump or growth in your neck called a thyroid nodule. Other symptoms include: difficulty breathing, loss of voice and swollen lymph nodes. Fortunately, thyroid cancer is curable through a surgical procedure that removes some or all of the thyroid gland.
20 million Americans are living with a thyroid condition, with 1 in 8 women suffering from a condition. That being said, it is important to get your thyroid checked regularly, speak with your health provider about your risk for thyroid related conditions.
For more information regarding thyroid cancer please contact Dana-Farber Community Cancer Care at (617) 632-5335.