The thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the neck, just below the Adam’s apple, produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism, growth, and development.

Dr. Erdem Türemen, an Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Specialist at Anadolu Medical Center, states that the hormones secreted by the thyroid gland affect the function of all organs in the body. He explains that the thyroid has a broad influence, from body temperature and muscle function to heart rate and kidney functions. Dr. Türemen also emphasizes that women are 5 to 8 times more likely to develop thyroid problems than men.

The Difference Between Thyroid and Goiter: Commonly Confused Terms

Dr. Erdem Türemen points out that the thyroid gland is sometimes confused with goiter, explaining, “While the thyroid is a gland located in our neck, goiter is the term used to describe the enlarged state of this gland.”

Symptoms of Thyroid Issues: Fatigue and Depression Could Be Warning Signs

Dr. Türemen notes that thyroid problems can present with various symptoms, stating, “Fatigue, depression, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, unexpected weight loss, and heart palpitations are significant signs of thyroid issues.” He emphasizes that if a swelling or lump is noticed in the neck, an endocrinologist should be consulted without delay. Although most thyroid nodules are benign, Dr. Türemen warns that such symptoms should not be ignored.

Thyroid Cancer: Early Diagnosis Enables Treatment

Dr. Erdem Türemen explains that thyroid cancer arises from the uncontrolled growth of cells in the thyroid gland. He emphasizes that early diagnosis makes thyroid cancer entirely treatable. Dr. Türemen highlights symptoms such as swelling in the neck, discomfort in the throat, pain, difficulty swallowing, trouble breathing, hoarseness, weight gain, and irritability as potential signs of thyroid cancer. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), thyroid cancer had a global incidence rate of 3% in 2020. While the incidence of thyroid cancer is increasing in Turkey, Dr. Türemen notes that mortality rates are steadily declining.

About Anadolu Medical Center

Anadolu Medical Center, committed to improving quality of life, provides world-class healthcare services in partnership with Johns Hopkins Medicine (JHM). Offering a patient-centered approach, the hospital delivers reliable and high-quality healthcare in areas such as oncology, cardiovascular health, women’s health and IVF, neurology, surgical sciences, and internal medicine.