Michael Bouvet, MD, professor of surgery, University of California, San Diego, discusses risk factors for thyroid cancer.

The causes of most thyroid cancers are unknown, says Bouvet. There are several risk factors for thyroid cancer including radiation exposure. A history of radiation exposure, such as a radiation disaster like Chernobyl and Fukushima, can heighten the likelihood of developing thyroid cancer, among other malignancies.

Additionally, some people may have a higher risk of thyroid cancer due to family history. However, Bouvet says that there is greater awareness for thyroid cancer now, and it remains to be a very curable cancer.

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Michael Bouvet, MD, professor of surgery, University of California, San Diego, discusses risk factors for thyroid cancer.
 

Dr. Bouvet Discusses Risk Factors for Thyroid Cancer

Michael Bouvet, MD, professor of surgery, University of California, San Diego, discusses the diagnosis of thyroid cancer.

Thyroid cancer is increasing in frequency, often presenting in younger patients with an average age of 40. A nodule is usually detected by the patient, or a primary care physician during a neck exam.

An ultrasound of the thyroid would follow, and if the nodule is bigger than 1 centimeter it will typically get biopsied, says Bouvet.

Dr. Bouvet Discusses the Diagnosis of Thyroid Cancer

Michael Bouvet, MD, professor of surgery, University of California, San Diego, discusses the remaining challenges with thyroid cancer surgery.

The biggest challenge is to determine the right balance between treatment and observation, says Bouvet. It is also crucial that the initial operation on a large tumor is thorough in order to avoid a second operation and consequential risks.

Preoperative staging with ultrasound has really improved the accuracy of surgery for thyroid cancer, explains Bouvet.

Michael Bouvet, MD, professor of surgery, University of California, San Diego, discusses the remaining challenges with thyroid cancer surgery. 

Michael Bouvet, MD

Articles

Dr. Bouvet Discusses Risk Factors for Thyroid Cancer

Dr. Bouvet Discusses the Diagnosis of Thyroid Cancer

Dr. Bouvet on Remaining Challenges With Thyroid Cancer Surgery