The cause of most thyroids cancer is not known. Therefore, there are no current steps to prevent most thyroid cancers.
Medullary thyroid cancer is caused by changes in a certain gene. This type of cancer is aggressive. It tends to spread and can be fatal. Those with a family history of this type of cancer may consider genetic testing. Having this gene does not mean the person will definitely get cancer. Some may choose to have their thyroid removed before there is any sign of cancer. It will prevent thyroid cancer in the future. Others may choose to keep their thyroid and watch for any changes.
References
Anaplastic thyroid cancer. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/anaplastic-thyroid-cancer. Accessed April 20, 2022.
Follicular thyroid cancer. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/follicular-thyroid-cancer-21. Accessed April 20, 2022.
Medullary thyroid cancer. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/medullary-thyroid-cancer. Accessed April 20, 2022.
Papillary thyroid cancer. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/papillary-thyroid-cancer. Accessed April 20, 2022.
Treatment option overview. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/thyroid/patient/thyroid-treatment-pdq#section/%5F67. Accessed April 20, 2022.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Mohei Abouzied, MD, FACP
- Update Date: 04/20/2022