Thyroid cancer incidence rates among adolescents and young adults (AYAs) aged 15-39 years have increased rapidly since 2000s in most countries, whereas thyroid cancer mortality rates have remained very low and stable. This comes up in a recent comprehensive study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
Drawing on data from 185 countries, the research reveals that thyroid cancer has become one of the most diagnosed cancers in young people, particularly young women. Despite this surge in new cases—over 237,000 in 2022 globally—the mortality rates remain very low and stable, indicating a possible overdiagnosis problem.
Geographic and Gender Disparities in Thyroid Cancer Incidence
The fastest incidence increases are seen in countries like China, Cyprus, Ecuador, South Korea, and Türkiye, with some reporting annual rises exceeding 10%. Thyroid cancer ranks among the top three cancers diagnosed in female AYAs across 100 countries and among males in 26 countries.
Moreover, there’s a clear positive correlation with the Human Development Index (HDI), suggesting higher access to medical imaging and diagnostics in wealthier countries may drive overdiagnosis.
Overdiagnosis and Its Implications for Young Adults
Dr Salvatore Vaccarella of IARC warns that overdiagnosis in younger populations can lead to unnecessary, aggressive treatments, carrying physical, psychological, and financial burdens. AYAs face unique challenges including disruption to education and career, social stigma, insurance difficulties, and mental health issues. These factors compound the overall impact of thyroid cancer diagnosis at a pivotal life stage.
Need for Global Awareness and Targeted Interventions
With thyroid cancer incidence expected to continue rising, especially in countries undergoing economic transition, urgent public health responses are required. Enhanced screening protocols, awareness about overdiagnosis risks, and supportive care for AYAs are critical to reduce harm while managing thyroid cancer effectively.
The IARC’s groundbreaking global study reveals thyroid cancer incidence rates are rising rapidly among adolescents and young adults. Overdiagnosis, driven largely by improved medical imaging, is a major factor. Addressing this evolving public health challenge requires balanced screening approaches. It also requires compassionate patient-centered care that mitigates harm while preserving early cancer detection benefits.
“The epidemiological profile of thyroid cancer among young adults points to a large expansion of overdiagnosis to younger populations.” – Dr. Salvatore Vaccarella, IARC
Q&A Section
Q: What age group does the study focus on for thyroid cancer trends?
A: Adolescents and young adults aged 15 to 39 years.
Q: Has thyroid cancer mortality increased with incidence?
A: No, mortality rates have remained very low and stable globally.
Q: Which countries exhibit the fastest increases?
A: China, Cyprus, Ecuador, South Korea, and Türkiye show significant rises.
Q: What challenges do young thyroid cancer patients face?
A: Physical treatment impacts, mental health struggles, career and educational disruptions, and social stigma.
FAQ
What is overdiagnosis?
Detecting thyroid cancers that would not have caused symptoms or harm in a patient’s lifetime.
Why is overdiagnosis more prevalent in high-HDI countries?
Better access to diagnostic tools increases detection of small or slow-growing tumors.
How does thyroid cancer affect young women compared to men?
Young women have higher incidence rates and account for the majority of new diagnoses.
What are the public health recommendations?
Promote cautious screening, raise awareness about overdiagnosis, and provide supportive care for AYAs.
