Researchers have long known that radiation is the most significant risk factor for thyroid cancer. A recently published study shows that radiation is also associated with a deadlier form of thyroid cancer. Valerie has written an article describing this study.
The findings show that patients who had RAI as a form of thyroid ablation for cancer or hyperthyroidism developed forms of cancer that were more aggressive and much more likely to metastasize.
This study is important for anyone considering their options for treating hyperthyroidism and it's important for patients who have had RAI ablation. Dr. Francis Greenspan recommends that patients who have had RAI have annual checkups to look for signs of thyroid cancer and nodular growths.