Nicosia: The incidence of thyroid cancer in Cyprus is almost four times higher than the average for European Union countries, according to Dr. Stelia Ioannidou Kadis, Clinical Associate Professor of Endocrinology at the University of Nicosia Medical School, as reported by CNA.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Dr. Kadis expressed concern over the high rates of thyroid cancer, particularly among children and adolescents in Cyprus, which are among the highest worldwide. She highlighted that there is currently no data to suggest environmental factors from regional conflicts and wars are contributing to these rates.
Dr. Kadis emphasized that thyroid cancer is largely curable, underscoring the significance of early diagnosis and treatment. She noted that thyroid cancer is the most common malignancy of the endocrine system, accounting for 95% of endocrine malignancies and 1.5% of all human malignancies. In Cyprus, it is the second most common cancer in women and sixth in men, predominantly affecting individuals aged 35-59.
She reiterated her concern regarding the incidence in Cyprus being four times higher than the EU average. The high incidence in children has been a subject of debate, and as of now, no definitive cause has been identified. Dr. Kadis mentioned that risk factors for thyroid cancer include prior radiation therapy to the neck, exposure to radioactive radiation, pre-existing thyroid conditions, family history, age, obesity, and iodine deficiency.
Despite most patients being asymptomatic, symptoms may include prolonged hoarseness, a neck mass, and difficulty swallowing. Dr. Kadis concluded by stressing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment by specialized medical teams to ensure the disease remains largely curable.