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Radioactive Iodine Therapy for Thyroid Cancer: Benefits and Risks

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  What is Radioactive Iodine Therapy? Radioactive iodine therapy (RAI) is a targeted treatment used after thyroid surgery to eliminate any remaining thyroid tissue or microscopic cancer cells. Since thyroid cells naturally absorb iodine, the radioactive form selectively destroys cancerous cells without harming most other tissues in the body. It is mainly recommended for papillary and follicular thyroid cancers and plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of recurrence.   How Does the Therapy Work? After surgery, patients are given a capsule or liquid form of radioactive iodine. Once swallowed, it travels through the bloodstream and is absorbed primarily by thyroid cells. The radiation then destroys these cells over time. This precision makes RAI therapy one of the safest and most effective post-surgical treatments available for thyroid cancer patients.   Major Benefits of Radioactive Iodine Therapy 1. Highly Targeted Treatment – It specifically attacks thyroid cells, sp...

Understanding Thyroid Cancer and Its Treatment

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  Thyroid cancer occurs in the cells of the thyroid gland, located at the base of the neck. Though it is generally considered highly treatable, early diagnosis and appropriate medical care play a vital role in achieving successful outcomes. Symptoms and Diagnosis Thyroid cancer may not show noticeable symptoms in its early stages. As it progresses, common signs include a lump in the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, swollen lymph nodes, or persistent throat and neck pain. Diagnostic tools such as ultrasound, fine needle aspiration biopsy, blood tests, and imaging scans are essential to confirm the presence and stage of cancer. Types of Thyroid Cancer There are several types of thyroid cancer, each with different behaviors: Papillary Thyroid Cancer: The most common and slow-growing. Follicular Thyroid Cancer: Slightly more aggressive but often curable. Medullary Thyroid Cancer: Can be inherited and may require more complex treatment. Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer: A rare and ...