Telangana, Andhra record uptick in cancer cases among middle aged women

Hyderabad: Cancer continues to be one of the biggest health challenges globally. In 2020 alone, close to 19 million new cancer cases were reported, leading to nearly 10 million deaths. India contributes significantly to this burden, with around 1.3 million new cases and more than 8 lakh deaths every year. Beyond being a medical problem, cancer disrupts families socially, emotionally, and economically.

Among the various types of cancer, thyroid cancer often receives less attention. Yet, health experts stress that it deserves greater recognition, particularly in September, which is observed as Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month.

Global and Indian Scenario

According to global data, there were about 5.8 lakh new thyroid cancer cases in 2020, making it the tenth most common cancer. Mortality remains relatively low, with around 43,000 deaths per year, thanks to effective treatment options when the disease is detected early.

In India, the incidence rate is about 5.4 cases per 100,000 population. National estimates indicate that more than 20,000 new cases occur each year, leading to over 4,000 deaths. Experts note that the trend is rising, especially among urban women. Cancer registries in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh also report an upward trajectory, particularly in women aged 30 to 50 years. However, detailed state-wise data remains under review by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

Who Is at Risk?

Dr. Nishith Vaddeboina, Senior Consultant Medical Oncologist at Renova Century Hospitals, Banjara Hills, explains, “Some risk factors are beyond our control, like age, family history, and genetic conditions. Thyroid cancer can occur at any age but is more common in women, who are often diagnosed in their 40s and 50s, while men are usually affected a decade later. Other risk factors include previous radiation exposure, obesity, and dietary imbalance of iodine.”

Warning Signs to Watch

The most common early symptom is a lump in the front of the neck, which may increase in size over time. Dr. Vaddeboina points out:

“Other warning signs include persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing or breathing, swelling in the neck, pain that may spread to the ears, and an unexplained cough not linked to a cold. These symptoms are not always due to cancer, but they should never be ignored. A timely medical evaluation can make all the difference.”

Treatment and Long-Term Care

Surgery remains the cornerstone of treatment, often involving the removal of part or all of the thyroid gland. In early-stage cases, surgery alone can be curative. In more advanced cases, radioactive iodine therapy may be required to destroy residual thyroid tissue or cancer cells.

“Targeted therapies and, in select situations, external radiation or chemotherapy are used when the disease is more aggressive or spreads outside the thyroid,” Dr. Vaddeboina said. “Long-term follow-up is essential, as thyroid cancer can recur even years later.”

Why Awareness Matters

Thyroid cancer is often curable when detected early. Dr. Vaddeboina emphasizes the importance of public awareness:

“The story of thyroid cancer is one of hope, because when detected early, it is highly curable. Awareness campaigns ensure that people know the symptoms, understand their risk, and seek medical care at the right time. For India, spreading awareness in regional languages and across rural areas will be vital to reduce the burden.”

Call for Action

This September, Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month provides an opportunity to educate communities about the disease. Sharing knowledge, encouraging regular check-ups, and supporting patients and families can help reduce its impact. As experts underline, awareness is the first step towards saving lives.