Thursday, October 30, 2008

THYROID CANCER: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW


Thyroid cancer is one of the few cancers increasing in the number of newly diagnosed cases each year in America today. It affects women three times as many times as men and it occurs in all age groups.

Signs and symptons to discuss with your doctor: a lump in your neck, a lymph node swelling (specially is it's recurring), fullness in the neck, voice changes, difficulty breathing, sleep apnea, recurrent sore throat or pain in the neck.

There are several types of thyroid cancer; papillary, follicular, medullary, anaplastic and several variants. Treatment depends on the type of thyroid cancer, tumor size, age of the patient, and other factors and may include one or more of the following; surgery, thyroid hormone replacement, radioactive iodine, external beam radiation and chemotherapy.

AfroAmerican and Latino Women ages 15 to 35 are more likely to be diagnosed at secondary or advanced stages of disease when clinical outcomes and quality of life issues are more difficult to manage and predict.

Thyroid cancer can spread or metastasize to other endocrine organs or glands, the lymphactic system, lungs, and bones. It can sometimes reappear decades after initial treatment. Because of this, patients should have follow-up tests throughout their lifetime, so that any recurrence can be treated properly.

You are not alone! Whether you are newly diagnosed, are still being tested for possible thyroid cancer, or have been living with it for many years, you may have fears, concerns or questions. Thyroid Cancer presents many unique challenges. These include the potential impact of diagnostic tests and treatment on your quality of life, as well as the emotional and financial stress over the need for long term follow up care and monitoring.

The Happy Angels Project Inc., our random acts of kindness volunteer group believes that no one should have to be alone as they cope with thyroid cancer; patient, caregiver, survivor or loved one. We have formed a unique support network in the community and online under Stevie JoEllie's Cancer Care Fund.

Our free services and outreach programs are available to everyone whose life has been touched by thyroid cancer. We hope our supportive services network can be of help to you and your family too as a patient and survivor. Visit our blog regularly for program development news, clinical updates.

Our Community Support Groups Meets the First Wednesday of the Month for the English Language Session and the Third Wednesday of the Month for the Spanish Language Session at Gilda's Club Northern NJ located at 575 Main Street Hackensack NJ from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM

~~~ Please call to confirm and verify dates: (973) 830-7557 or Email: sjccfthynet@gmail.com

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