What is A Thyroid Nodule

Thyroid nodules are abnormal growths of thyroid cells that form lumps within the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of your neck. These nodules can be solid or fluid-filled and are often discovered incidentally during routine medical exams or imaging tests for other conditions.

How common are they?

Thyroid nodules are extremely common in the general population. In fact, about half of all people will have at least one thyroid nodule by the age of 60, though many go unnoticed because they don't cause symptoms.

Most are benign, but awareness is crucial

The good news is that over 90% of thyroid nodules are benign (noncancerous). While a small percentage may be cancerous, thyroid cancers are typically curable and rarely life-threatening.

Who is more likely to have them?

Certain groups are more prone to developing thyroid nodules:

• Women: Women are three to four times more likely than men to have thyroid nodules, possibly due to hormonal influences.

• Older Adults: The likelihood of nodules increases with age, with a higher prevalence in those over 50.

• Other Factors: Conditions like iodine deficiency or autoimmune thyroid disorders (e.g., Hashimoto’s thyroiditis) can raise the risk, though iodine deficiency is rare in regions with iodized salt.

Source: American Thyroid Association

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