What is thyroid cancer?

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the middle of the neck, just below the Adam's apple. Its hormones regulate heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature and weight. Thyroid cancer begins in the cells of this gland.

In most cases the cause is not clear. It is more common in women; high radiation exposure and certain inherited syndromes raise the risk. One reassuring fact: most thyroid cancers respond very well to treatment, and in the majority of cases the disease does not affect life expectancy.

Treatment options

Treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer, your general health and your preferences. For most patients surgery is the first step: sometimes the whole gland is removed (thyroidectomy), and in some very small cancers only one lobe. Where needed, the neck lymph nodes are assessed in the same operation.

If the whole gland is removed, thyroid hormone is replaced with daily medication, checked with blood tests every few months at first and then yearly. Some patients also receive radioactive iodine after surgery to clear any remaining tissue. Which of these steps applies to you is explained at the visit, in plain language.

Read the full Thyroid Diseases guide

Frequently asked questions

Medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. Ayşenur Meriç Hafız, Professor of ENT and Head & Neck Surgery — August 2026 · About

Outcomes of surgical and medical procedures vary from person to person; please consult your physician for an assessment specific to you.