Mark Signer uses his voice to raise awareness about anaplastic thyroid cancer — something he thought impossible two years ago. When he was diagnosed with this highly aggressive cancer in July 2020, he was told to get his affairs in order. And when he awoke from the surgery that removed his tumor, he couldn’t speak; … Read more
One bout of cancer is enough to contend with, but since 2014 Mary Johnson has had to cope with four different cancers and related conditions. Despite these tests of her physical and emotional strength, Johnson is doing well today after treatment at Dana-Farber. “Coming to Dana-Farber gave me confidence because they supported me, and I … Read more
As one of three family members with the same first and last name, John E. Duggan found individuality through initials while growing up — becoming universally known as “Jed.” Having survived both stage III colon cancer and thyroid cancer before age 30, he is refusing to let another familial tie get him down. Duggan has MUTYH-associated polyposis (or MAP), … Read more
The first thing you should know is that most neck lumps are not a sign of cancer. There are a host of more common causes of neck lumps, including infections, cysts, boils, and other common skin irritations. However, a neck lump can also be an early sign of several types of cancer, so if your … Read more
While 80 to 90 percent of reported thyroid lumps are not cancerous, performing “neck checks” can help you become familiar with what your thyroid looks and feels like, so you can tell your health care professional if you notice any changes. How to feel for thyroid lumps Sit or stand up straight, and make sure … Read more
Located in the front of the neck below the voice box (larynx) and above the collarbone, the thyroid gland plays a very important role in regulating the body’s metabolism and function. Hormones released by the thyroid gland help to control heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and weight. Learn More: What Does a Thyroid Cancer … Read more
While thyroid cancer is surging, the reasons why are very much a matter of debate. Some researchers claim the numbers primarily reflect improved diagnostic and detection techniques, others say the problem goes deeper. Official statistics depict a disease on the rise. Data collected by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) show the incidence of thyroid cancer … Read more
Thyroid cancer is a disease in which malignant cancer cells form in the tissues of the thyroid gland. Like most forms of cancer, thyroid cancer can be broken down into several different types or subgroups, says Jochen Lorch, MD, director of Dana-Farber’s Thyroid Cancer Center. Most types of thyroid cancer are treatable and in some … Read more