How long can you live with thyroid cancer?

The survival period of thyroid tumors depends on the tumor type, stage and treatment effect. Benign tumors usually do not affect life expectancy, and malignant tumors can also achieve a longer survival period through standardized treatment. Thyroid tumors are divided into benign and malignant. Benign tumors such as thyroid adenomas can generally be cured through surgical resection. The treatment of malignant tumors such as thyroid cancer includes surgery, radioactive iodine therapy and targeted therapy. Early detection and standardized treatment can significantly improve the survival rate.

1. Benign thyroid tumors: Thyroid adenoma is the most common benign tumor and is usually found through ultrasound examination. Surgical resection is the main treatment method, with a low recurrence rate and a survival period similar to that of normal people. For some asymptomatic small adenomas, regular follow-up observation can be selected.

2. Differentiated thyroid cancer: including papillary carcinoma and follicular carcinoma, accounting for the vast majority of thyroid cancer. Early patients can achieve a 10-year survival rate of more than 90% through total or near-total thyroidectomy combined with radioactive iodine treatment. After surgery, long-term thyroid hormone replacement therapy is required, and thyroid function and tumor markers are monitored regularly.

3. Undifferentiated thyroid cancer: highly malignant, rapidly progressive, and poor prognosis. Treatment is mainly surgery, combined with radiotherapy and chemotherapy, but the effect is limited. For patients who cannot undergo surgery, targeted drug therapy, such as sorafenib, lenvatinib, etc., can be considered to prolong survival.

4. Medullary carcinoma: Originated from thyroid C cells, with genetic predisposition. Treatment is mainly surgical, and calcitonin levels need to be monitored after surgery. For advanced patients, targeted therapy can be tried, such as vandetanib, cabozantinib, etc.

5. Lifestyle adjustment: Patients with thyroid tumors should maintain a balanced diet, take in an appropriate amount of iodine, and avoid high-iodine or low-iodine diets. Moderate exercise helps improve immunity, and maintaining an optimistic attitude has a positive effect on recovery.

The prognosis of thyroid tumors is closely related to early diagnosis and standardized treatment. Regular physical examinations and timely medical treatment are key. For benign tumors, surgical resection can cure them; for malignant tumors, individualized treatment plans are adopted according to different types, and most patients can achieve long-term survival. Patients should actively cooperate with treatment, maintain good living habits, and undergo regular follow-up monitoring to improve their quality of life and prolong their survival.