KGF actor Harish Rai’s death after a long battle with thyroid cancer has shone spotlight on the silent killer. The 55-year-old actor known for playing memorable characters in KGF and Om was getting treatment at the Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology in Bengaluru, but as per reports, the cancer spread to his stomach and other organs.
Thyroid cancer begins in the thyroid, a small, butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your neck. It produces hormones that regulate metabolism, control body temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate, as per Cleveland Clinic. If detected early, it’s very much treatable, however metastatic cancer that spreads to other organs could be more challenging to treat.
Certain types of thyroid cancers respond better to the treatment. According to the Cleveland Clinic, Papillary thyroid cancers – constituting around 80% of all – grows slowly and is highly curable. On the other hand, follicular thyroid cancer, which may be diagnosed in 15% of the cases, is more likely to spread to the bones and organs, like lungs, making it metastatic, which is comparatively more difficult to treat. Then there is anaplastic thyroid cancer, which could be diagnosed in around 2% of thyroid cancers and is most difficult to treat.
First signs of thyroid cancer
It’s best to stay vigilant when it comes to detecting early signs of thyroid cancer. Any lump or swelling in front of the neck needs to be examined. A change in voice or problems in swallowing, or unexplained weight loss shouldn’t be taken lightly, as per experts.
Dr Mahesh D M, Consultant – Endocrinology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, in an interview with Financial Express.com shares early signs of thyroid cancer.
“One of the first signs can be a painless lump or swelling in the front of the neck. Sometimes, you may feel a tightness, hoarseness in the voice, or difficulty swallowing. If the cancer spreads, symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or pain in other parts of the body (such as the stomach or bones) may appear. These signs should never be ignored,” says Dr Mahesh.
Is it a regular thyroid issue or cancer? How to know
The endocrinologist also explains how to distinguish between usual thyroid issues and cancer.
“Normal thyroid problems like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism usually cause changes in energy, weight, and mood but do not cause lumps. Hypothyroidism may make you feel tired and gain weight, while hyperthyroidism can cause restlessness and weight loss. In thyroid cancer, the key difference is the presence of a lump, persistent hoarseness, or swelling that doesn’t go away,” Dr Mahesh told Financial Express.com.
What to do if you find a lump
To detect thyroid cancer early, regular neck checks and annual health screenings help. A doctor may do a physical examination, followed by an ultrasound or fine needle biopsy if a nodule is found. Blood tests alone cannot confirm cancer but can show how your thyroid is functioning, says the expert.
Thyroid care tips
For thyroid care, Dr Mahesh suggests maintaining a healthy diet with enough iodine, and avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure.
Most importantly, he advises a thyroid function test in case there is any change in the neck or voice. “If there is a family history of thyroid disease or cancer, more regular checkups are advised. Early diagnosis and treatment give a very good chance of recovery and prevent cancer from spreading to other organs,” he adds.
