What can I do to manage my increased risk of tumours and cancer?

Screening

Screening helps to detect, and in some cases treat, tumours and/or cancer at an early and manageable stage.

• Medullary thyroid cancer
  • Blood test to check calcitonin levels
  • Thyroid ultrasound and physical examination
• Hyperparathyroidism
  • Blood tests to check for parathyroid hormone and calcium levels
• Phaeochromocytomas
  • Physical examination
  • Blood pressure measurement
  • Urine test to check hormone levels
  • Further imaging (computed tomography [CT] / magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]) may be ordered

Your managing doctor(s) will discuss screening recommendations with you in greater detail. The age and onset for screening is dependent on your risk level, and may change according to personal and/or family history of tumours/cancer. Screening guidelines may change as more information is known.

Risk-reducing surgery

Risk-reducing surgery may be offered to help reduce the risk of cancer/tumours.

• Medullary thyroid cancer
  • Removal of the thyroid
• Hyperparathyroidism
  • Consider removal of parathyroid alongside thyroid surgery

Your managing doctor(s) will discuss these options with you in greater detail. The time and age of surgery is usually advised according to your risk level and your personal and/or family history of tumours/cancers.