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Located in the front of the neck below the voice box (larynx) and above the collarbone, the thyroid gland plays a very important role in regulating the body's metabolism and function. Hormones released by the thyroid gland help to control heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and weight. Thyroid cancer occurs when cancer cells form in the tissues of the thyroid gland.
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 does not mean that you will not get cancer. Speak with your doctor if you think you may be at risk for thyroid cancer.
Risk factors for thyroid cancer include:
Thyroid cancer may or may not cause symptoms, or symptoms may only appear when the disease is more advanced. Signs and symptoms of thyroid cancer may include:
There are multiple types of thyroid cancer, including these:
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Signs and Symptoms of a Thyroid TumorWhat are the typical signs and symptoms of a thyroid tumor? In this video, Eleni M. Rettig, MD, a head and neck surgical oncologist at Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, gives a brief overview of thyroid cancer, common symptoms to look out for, how to do a self-exam, and when to see your physician regarding changes to your health.