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Introduction

I have found the mental challenge of dealing with cancer harder than the actual physical problems. Do not under-estimate the toll that the cancer diagnosis takes on your mental health. It's not just a physical problem, especially because the thyroid controls so many hormones and overall physical and mental chemical processes.
- Jean, Kelowna, BC

This booklet, prepared by thyroid cancer survivors, is intended as a guide for those diagnosed with the disease. While it is written from the patient's point of view - by patients for patients - it has also been reviewed by members of Thry'vors Medical Advisory Panel (MAP). It will complement the medical information you will receive through your physician and other resources, and provide you with practical tips and questions to ask your doctor(s).

The Canadian Thyroid Cancer Support Group (Thry'vors) Inc. is an incorporated non-profit group and federally registered charitable organization led by thyroid cancer survivors. Our goal is to connect with patients and their families who want support and information about the disease. We benefit from the expertise of a Medical Advisory Panel (MAP) of thyroid cancer experts who offer information and guidance. (See our website for list of MAP members www.thryvors.org/AboutThryvors.html)

This booklet is organized in chronological order - it follows the course of a thyroid cancer patient's initial diagnosis, treatment and follow-up care. Through our own experiences, we hope to anticipate some of your questions and concerns, and shed light on the most frequently asked questions.

Well-differentiated thyroid cancers (papillary and follicular) make up approximately 85% of thyroid cancers diagnosed in Canada. These types of thyroid cancer are generally considered to be highly treatable.

This booklet focuses on the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of these forms of thyroid cancer.

Poorly differentiated variants of thyroid cancer, such as medullary, lymphoma and anaplastic tumours represent approximately 15% of all thyroid cancer cases in Canada. Each of these variants has a unique pathology and treatment beyond the scope of this booklet. For those seeking additional information on poorly differentiated variants of thyroid cancer, further resources are listed at the end of this booklet.

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Disclaimer: The information contained on this website does not constitute medical advice. Visitors are encouraged to work closely with their doctors to make sure that their individual medical needs are met. The Canadian Thyroid Cancer Support Group (Thry'vors) Inc. does not endorse any product, treatment, service or practitioner and is not responsible for the quality of the information or services offered by other organizations or websites.

© Canadian Thyroid Cancer Support Group (Thry'vors) Inc.