General Discussion

Thyroid cancer has a five-year survival rate of over 98%. This means that you’re about just as likely to live for at least five years as someone who doesn’t have thyroid cancer. Usually, the cancer stays in remission. Remission means there are no signs or symptoms of cancer.

These numbers vary, though, depending on the cancer type and cancer stage. For example, the five-year survival rate is excellent even when papillary and follicular cancers have spread. On the other hand, less than half of people with advanced medullary thyroid cancer survive. All forms of the rare anaplastic type involve a shortened life expectancy.

Is thyroid cancer curable?

Yes, most thyroid cancers are permanently curable with treatment. This is especially the case if the cancer hasn’t spread to distant parts of your body. Treating thyroid cancer in the early stages reduces the risk of cancer spread.