Thyroid cancer can take years to diagnose as symptoms often overlap with a range of other conditions.
The cancer affects the thyroid gland at the base of the neck, with the most common symptom a small, painless lump around the site. And according to a new study by academics at the University of Aberdeen, it takes 4.5 years on average for sufferers to be officially diagnosed.
The research, which collaborated with several thyroid charities, examined the experience of almost 1,200 patients, found that nearly two thirds of cases required multiple appointments as well as worsening symptoms in order for a diagnosis to be given, reports the Mirror.
