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What is thyroid cancer?

Diagram of the body showing the thyroid gland in the lower part of the neck below the voice box and in front of the windpipe.
  • Thyroid cancer is cancer that's found in the thyroid gland.
  • The thyroid gland is a small gland in the front, lower part of your neck. It makes and releases hormones that help with things like your digestion, muscles and heart.
  • Thyroid cancer is quite rare in the UK. Women are more likely to get it than men.
  • How serious thyroid cancer is depends on the type of thyroid cancer, how big it is, if it has spread and your general health.

Important: Get your symptoms checked

It's important to get any symptoms of thyroid cancer checked as soon as possible.

Page last reviewed: 18 May 2023
Next review due: 18 May 2026