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While genetic predisposition and environmental exposure still remain important, awareness has grown that there are modifiable lifestyle factors also with a causative role in thyroid carcinogenesis. Prevention is therefore not only possible but essential.

Weight optimization

Several epidemiological investigations have established obesity as a standalone risk factor for differentiated thyroid cancer. Mechanisms postulated include chronic low-grade inflammation, hyperinsulinemia, and deranged adipokine signaling. It is possible to decrease this risk and provide more metabolic advantages by having a healthy body mass index achieved by regular exercise and a well-balanced diet.

2. Cautious use of radiation

Radiation exposure, particularly when occurring at an early age, is one of the largest risk factors for thyroid cancer . Therefore, unnecessary scans such as routine CT scans should be avoided. If radiation tests are absolutely necessary, employing shielding for the thyroid will decrease the risk. Physicians will have to carefully weigh the short-term benefits of these scans against the potential long-term risks, especially when they are treating children.

3. Diet

Overall prevention of cancer is provided by a plant-rich diet with emphasis on fruits, vegetables, and whole grain foods. There is evidence that increased vegetable consumption, especially cruciferous vegetables, could be protective against thyroid carcinogenesis. Although some studies suggest a link between moderate alcohol consumption and a lower risk of thyroid cancer, it is important to remember that alcohol is a Class I carcinogen for several head and neck cancers. Therefore, alcohol should be avoided altogether.

4. Avoidance of tobacco

Though the causal relationship between tobacco and thyroid cancer is not as marked as with other cancers in the aerodigestive tract, smoking has a detrimental effect on thyroid function and leads to several head and neck cancers. Complete cessation of tobacco is an important preventive measure.

5. Examination of the neck and awareness of early signs

Most thyroid tumors are found as an incidental neck mass on initial presentation. Patients need to remain vigilant for new swelling, hoarseness, swallowing difficulty, or unexplained cervical lymphadenopathy. Early specialist evaluation of these symptoms makes it possible to make an early diagnosis and treat the condition.

6. Stress and thyroid cancer

While there is little evidence that suggests a direct association between stress and thyroid cancer, chronic psychological stress does influence immunological and endocrine function. Incorporating stress-modifying interventions such as yoga, meditation, or physical exercise may, indirectly, serve to improve thyroid function and enhance resilience in the treatment if cancer develops.


7. Risk-adapted surveillance and screening

Those with familial thyroid carcinoma syndromes, childhood head-neck irradiation, or positive family history are worthy of individually designed surveillance programs. Routine clinical examination and ultrasound evaluation as clinically indicated remain the keystones of early detection for the general population.

Prevention of thyroid cancer is based on control of modifiable risk factors, patient education, and institution of early surveillance in high-risk populations.

Dr Shilpi Agrawal, Consultant Head & Neck Oncosurgery, HCG Cancer Centre, Borivali

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