Thyroid Cancer

Some 23,600 Americans are diagnosed each year with thyroid cancer. Thyroid cancer is two to four times more common in women than in men, but the reasons for this difference are not yet known. It is most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 25 and 65.

There are four types of thyroid cancer: papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic. Papillary carcinoma, the most common type, grows very slowly and has the best outcome.

In this section, you can find information about our expertise in treating patients with thyroid cancer, our services, and our research.

Our Approach & Expertise
At Memorial Sloan-Kettering, one of the leading centers in the world for the detection and treatment of thyroid cancer, a multidisciplinary team of experts work together to ensure an accurate diagnosis and the best care possible for each patient.
Our Team of Experts
Our thyroid cancer specialists' specific areas of clinical expertise, education and training, board certifications, and publications.
Overview
Located at the lower part of the front of your neck, your thyroid gland takes up iodine from blood to produce hormones important for your body to function normally.
Risk Factors
The most common cause of thyroid cancer is significant exposure to radiation, either from the environment or as a result of prior medical treatment where radiation was applied to the head and neck area.
Symptoms
Thyroid cancer initially appears as a small lump or swelling, called a nodule, that you can feel on your neck. Thyroid nodules are common, and in more than 90 percent of cases they are benign.
Diagnosis
The first test for thyroid cancer is a physical examination of the nodule by a physician.
Treatment
If a thyroid nodule is malignant, surgery is the first step in treating it.
Our Clinical Trials
Here you can find a continually updated listing of Memorial Sloan-Kettering's current clinical trials for thyroid cancer.
Survivorship & Support
For most patients, life after thyroid cancer treatment is quite normal, but follow-up and surveillance are necessary.

Site Map \| Index	Legal Disclaimer \| Privacy Practices \| Public Notices

©2008 Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. 212-639-2000 1275 York Avenue New York, NY 10065.	PublicAffairs@mskcc.org