KUWAIT CITY, Jan 19: The National Cancer Awareness Campaign (CAN) concluded its annual thyroid cancer awareness campaign, themed “Be Aware and Take Care,” on Monday, following a week of activities across hospitals and health centers in Kuwait.

CAN Chairman Dr. Khaled Al-Saleh said 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 swollen lymph nodes. He explained that the disease can result from genetic mutations, hereditary factors, or radiation exposure, and may, in some cases, spread to other parts of the body.

“While the exact causes remain unclear, thyroid cancer develops when genetic changes trigger abnormal cell growth,” Dr. Al-Saleh said, noting that most cases grow slowly, though some can be aggressive. He emphasized that thyroid cancer is curable and highlighted the critical role of early detection in raising cure rates to around 90 percent.

Dr. Al-Saleh also pointed to efforts by the Kuwait Cancer Society (KCS) to promote a balanced lifestyle, proper nutrition, and physical activity to reduce cancer risks.

Campaign manager Dr. Iman Al-Shammari said the initiative aimed to increase cure rates by raising public awareness of early detection. Activities included health exhibitions at several Ministry of Health hospitals and centers, featuring educational materials and interactive awareness programs.

“The campaign’s goal is to improve health literacy about early signs of thyroid cancer, encourage timely diagnosis, and provide psychological support for patients in recovery,” Dr. Al-Shammari said, noting that thyroid cancer ranks as the third most common cancer in Kuwait.