Thyroid cancer develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the thyroid gland — a small, butterfly-shaped organ located at the front of your neck. The thyroid produces hormones that regulate essential body functions such as breathing, heart rate, body temperature, and digestion.
In its early stages, thyroid cancer often causes no noticeable symptoms. As the condition progresses, however, it may lead to signs such as a lump in the neck, voice changes, or persistent coughing.
Types of Thyroid Cancer
There are four main types of thyroid cancer, classified based on the type of cell involved and how aggressively the cancer grows:
1. Papillary Thyroid Cancer (PTC)
Papillary thyroid cancer
This is the most common type, accounting for about 80% of all cases. It grows slowly and is highly treatable. The survival rate is excellent, and it is rarely fatal.
2. Follicular Thyroid Cancer
Follicular thyroid cancer
This type also arises from hormone-producing thyroid cells and tends to spread through the bloodstream rather than lymph nodes.
3. Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC)
Medullary thyroid carcinoma
This form develops from C cells in the thyroid, which produce the hormone calcitonin. It may occur sporadically or run in families.
4. Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer (ATC)
Anaplastic thyroid cancer
A rare but extremely aggressive form of thyroid cancer that grows rapidly and is more difficult to treat.
There are also classifications based on how differentiated the cancer cells are:
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Well-differentiated thyroid cancer (WDTC) — generally less aggressive
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Poorly differentiated thyroid cancer (PDTC) — intermediate behavior
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Anaplastic thyroid cancer — highly aggressive
Who Is at Risk?
People assigned female at birth develop thyroid cancer about three times more often than those assigned male at birth. However, mortality rates are similar between sexes.
The average age at diagnosis is 51 — younger than many other adult cancers. Over the past two decades, thyroid cancer rates have steadily increased, making awareness of symptoms especially important.
Common Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer
Lump in the Neck
The most common early sign is a lump (called a nodule) in the front of the neck. Most thyroid nodules are benign (non-cancerous). In fact, many people have nodules without even realizing it.
However, about 5% to 10% of thyroid nodules are cancerous.
If a nodule causes symptoms, you may experience:
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Pressure, pain, or swelling in the neck
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Difficulty breathing
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Difficulty swallowing
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A hoarse voice
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Persistent cough
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Signs of hyperthyroidism
Pain and Swelling
Thyroid nodules can press on surrounding tissues. Some people feel pain that starts in the neck and may radiate toward the ears.
Neck swelling may also occur due to enlarged lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are small immune glands that help fight infections. When the body responds to thyroid cancer, nearby lymph nodes may swell.
Trouble Breathing or Swallowing
A large thyroid nodule can press against:
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The trachea (windpipe) → causing breathing difficulty, especially when lying down
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The esophagus (food pipe) → making swallowing difficult or painful
These symptoms usually appear when the tumor grows larger.
Hoarseness and Persistent Cough
Occasional hoarseness is common during illness. However, persistent hoarseness that does not improve may be a warning sign.
If a thyroid tumor presses on the larynx (voice box) or nearby nerves, it can alter the voice. A constant cough without other cold symptoms may also occur.
Hyperthyroidism Symptoms
Some thyroid nodules produce excess thyroid hormones. When this happens, symptoms of hyperthyroidism may develop, including:
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Increased sweating
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Rapid or irregular heartbeat
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Blurred vision
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Nervousness
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Unintentional weight loss
Thyroid Cancer in Children
Thyroid cancer is rare in children, but when nodules do appear in children, they are more likely to be cancerous compared to adults.
While only 5–10% of adult nodules are cancerous, 19–34% of nodules in children may be malignant. Children under age 10 are particularly at higher risk for larger tumors and spread (metastasis).
Because of this, any thyroid lump in a child should be evaluated promptly.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
The good news is that most thyroid cancers are highly treatable, especially when detected early.
You should schedule a medical evaluation if you notice:
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A lump or swelling in your neck
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Persistent hoarseness
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Ongoing cough without illness
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Difficulty swallowing or breathing
You should also seek care sooner if you have risk factors such as:
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A family history of thyroid cancer
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A history of radiation exposure to the head or neck
Your healthcare provider may perform:
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A physical examination
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Blood tests to check thyroid function
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Ultrasound imaging
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Fine-needle biopsy to examine thyroid cells
Final Thoughts
Thyroid cancer often develops quietly, without obvious early symptoms. However, small changes — especially a new lump in the neck — should never be ignored.
Early diagnosis greatly improves treatment outcomes. If something feels unusual, getting checked is a simple but powerful step toward protecting your long-term health.
