CAN campaign highlights 90% recovery rate for thyroid cancer in Kuwait

The National Cancer Awareness Campaign (CAN) concluded its annual thyroid cancer awareness week, held under the slogan “Be Aware and Care”, at several hospitals and health centers across Kuwait to educate the public about cancer and its early detection.

Dr. Khaled Al Saleh, Chairman of the Campaign’s Board of Directors, explained that thyroid cancer is an abnormal growth of cells in the thyroid gland, often beginning as a painless lump or nodule.

Symptoms may include hoarseness, difficulty swallowing or breathing, and enlarged lymph nodes. He noted that while the exact causes remain unclear, risk factors include genetic mutations, hereditary influences, and exposure to radiation, especially during childhood, reports Al-Rai daily.

Dr. Al Saleh emphasized that thyroid cancer is curable, and early medical consultation is essential for successful diagnosis and treatment. Most thyroid cancers grow slowly, though some can be aggressive.

With early detection and proper treatment, recovery rates can reach approximately 90 percent. He praised CAN’s awareness initiatives, which encourage healthy lifestyles, proper nutrition, and regular physical activity.

Campaign coordinator, Dr. Iman Al-Shammari, added that the initiative aims to increase recovery rates through early detection and raising public awareness.

The campaign included health exhibitions at several Ministry of Health hospitals and centers, where educational materials were distributed and awareness activities were conducted to highlight the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Al-Shammari also noted that the campaign provides psychological support to patients and survivors, while educating the public about the disease’s initial signs, ultimately aiming to improve treatment outcomes and enhance health literacy among society. Thyroid cancer remains the third most common cancer in Kuwait.