Cancer

Thyroid cancer

Guidelines for preventive activities in general practice

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Table of contents

Cancer | Thyroid cancer

Prevalence and context of the condition

In Australia, thyroid cancer is the ninth most commonly diagnosed cancer.¹ It is estimated that more than 4000 people were diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2023 in Australia and that one in 79 people will be diagnosed with the condition by the time they are 85 years of age.¹

Table of recommendations

Screening

Recommended as of: 28/06/2024

Recommendation	Grade	How often	References
Screening for thyroid cancer in asymptomatic adults is not recommended.	Not recommended (Strong)	N/A	²

Further information

In 2017, the USPSTF found that screening for thyroid cancer in asymptomatic people resulted in harms that outweigh the benefits.²

Considerations for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

There are no specific recommendations for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

References

Cancer Council. Thyroid cancer. Australia: Cancer Council, 2023 [Accessed 2 November 2023]
US Preventive Services Task Force. Thyroid Cancer: Screening. USA: USPSTF, 2017 [Accessed 17 January 2024]

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