Thyroid cancer is a disease that affects the thyroid gland, which is located in the neck. According to the American Cancer Society, thyroid cancer is increasing in prevalence in the United States and is three times more likely to affect women than men.

While the disease can affect anyone, certain careers have been identified as increasing susceptibility to thyroid cancer.

Signs and Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer is often asymptomatic, meaning that there are no visible symptoms until the disease has progressed. However, there are some common signs and symptoms that people with thyroid cancer may experience. These include:.

A lump or nodule in the neck
Swelling in the neck or throat area
Pain or discomfort in the throat or neck area
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Hoarseness or changes in voice
Fatigue or weakness

Careers that Increase Susceptibility to Thyroid Cancer

While anyone can develop thyroid cancer, there are certain careers that have been linked to an increased risk of developing the disease. These careers include:.

Radioactive Material Handling Jobs

People who work with radioactive materials are at a higher risk of developing thyroid cancer. This is because the thyroid gland is particularly susceptible to radiation.

Jobs that involve handling radioactive materials include nuclear power plant workers, radiation therapists, and nuclear medicine technologists.

Certain Medical Professions

People who work in certain medical professions are also at a higher risk of developing thyroid cancer. These professions include radiologists, oncologists, and endocrinologists.

These professionals work with radioactive materials or cancer patients and may be exposed to higher levels of radiation than the general population.

Hairdressers and Beauticians

Studies have shown that hairdressers and beauticians are at a higher risk of developing thyroid cancer. This is because they are exposed to hair dyes and other hair products that contain chemicals that have been linked to cancer.

Farming and Agricultural Jobs

People who work in farming and agricultural jobs may also be at a higher risk of developing thyroid cancer. This is because they may be exposed to pesticides and other chemicals that are used in farming.

Manufacturing and Industrial Jobs

Workers in manufacturing and industrial jobs may be exposed to chemicals and other substances that have been linked to cancer. This includes workers in the automotive industry, printing industry, and chemical manufacturing industry.

Military Jobs

People who serve in the military may be at a higher risk of developing thyroid cancer. This is because they may be exposed to radiation, chemicals, and other substances during their service.

Military personnel who served during nuclear weapons testing or in the Gulf War may be at a particularly high risk of developing thyroid cancer.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention and early detection are key in treating thyroid cancer. People who work in careers that increase susceptibility to thyroid cancer should take steps to protect themselves.

This includes wearing protective equipment, following safety guidelines, and getting regular checkups.

If thyroid cancer is detected early, it is highly treatable. Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

People who are diagnosed with thyroid cancer should work closely with their doctors to determine the best course of treatment.