When nodules go ignored: The risk of missing thyroid cancer symptoms

Thyroid cancer can be treated, but when early symptoms go unnoticed, the disease can advance without being detected for months or years. If you recognize thyroid cancer symptoms early, you may have more treatment options available. An unusual lump or nodules in the neck are the most common symptom. Other symptoms include the following:

• neck, jaw, or ear pain
• difficulty breathing
• difficulty swallowing
• "tickle in the throat" sensation
• hoarseness in voice

Without proper treatment, thyroid cancer can become aggressive and might spread to the lymph nodes, lungs, bones, brain, liver, and skin. If metastasis occurs, treatment becomes more complex and more costly.

PFAS exposure can increase thyroid cancer risk

Generally, the risks of developing thyroid cancer depend on family history, radiation exposure, and chemical exposure. In recent years, studies have found that military veterans face higher risks of cancer diagnosis, and this can be related to chemicals like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have been used in U.S. military bases for decades.

Studies have found that PFAS can affect how the body uptakes iodine and disrupt thyroid function. In particular, it inhibits iodide accumulation, similar to how toxic perchlorate ions would block the sodium-iodide symporter (NIS).

In November 2023, another study found that a higher rate of thyroid cancer diagnosis was linked to PFOS in plasma. Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) is one of the two most widely studied types of "forever chemicals". This type of PFAS has also been found in public water systems in the US.

You may qualify for a PFAS toxic exposure claim

If you have been diagnosed with thyroid cancer after being exposed to PFAS in any of the following ways, the Environment Litigation Group can help you file a claim. We can assist you if you received your thyroid cancer diagnosis after the following:

• You (or your family member) were stationed at a military base where PFAS contamination was documented.
• You lived within one mile of a military base where PFAS contamination was documented.

We provide legal assistance to victims of PFAS exposure

The Environment Litigation Group has over 35 years of experience in dealing with toxic exposure claims for victims who were diagnosed with cancer. Our attorneys provide legal assistance to military personnel, their family members, and nearby residents of contaminated military bases. We will evaluate your case and determine your eligibility through military records (or proof of residence) and medical records showing your diagnosis. Schedule a consultation with us today to get a free evaluation.