Active Surveillance and Surgery Outcomes in Low Risk Papillary Thyroid Cancer
This study is for adults in the UK with a specific type of small, low-risk thyroid cancer called papillary thyroid cancer. It's an observational study, meaning researchers will track what happens to people who choose one of two paths: either 'active surveillance' (where the cancer is closely monitored without immediate treatment) or 'immediate surgery' to remove the thyroid. The study will follow people for up to 10 years to understand the long-term results of each choice, focusing on how often patients achieve their initial goals, whether that's avoiding surgery first, or being cured of their cancer.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This important study is looking into the best way to manage a type of thyroid cancer called papillary thyroid cancer, specifically when it's small and considered 'low-risk'. Doctors already know that this type of cancer often grows very slowly, and sometimes doesn't grow at all. Because of this, patients are increasingly being offered a choice: either to have surgery straight away, or to go for something called 'active surveillance'.
Active surveillance means doctors will keep a very close eye on the cancer with regular check-ups and scans. The idea here is to avoid surgery, with the plan to only operate if the cancer shows signs of growing or if the patient changes their mind. If you choose surgery, doctors will remove part or all of your thyroid gland. This study aims to help us understand which approach leads to better outcomes and quality of life for patients over the long term.
The researchers will follow people in both groups for up to 10 years. They want to find out how often people achieve what they set out to do. For those choosing active surveillance, 'success' might mean avoiding surgery altogether for many years. For those choosing surgery, 'success' would mean being cured of the cancer. By comparing these experiences, the study hopes to give patients and doctors clearer information for making these important decisions in the future.
Key takeaways
- Compares watching cancer (active surveillance) vs. immediate surgery.
- For small, low-risk papillary thyroid cancer in adults.
- Aims to understand long-term outcomes and patient goals.
- You won't take new medication; it's about observing treatment choices.
- Your choice helps doctors improve care for others in the future.
- Study follow-up can last up to 10 years.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old. You must have been recently diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer that's less than 2 centimetres in size (about the width of a 2 pence coin) and hasn't spread to nearby lymph nodes or outside the thyroid.
There are also some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if your cancer has spread to other parts of your body, or if you've had thyroid surgery before. Also, if your cancer is in a tricky spot that could cause problems if it grew, or if you have other serious health problems that mean surgery would be too risky, this study might not be right for you. Unfortunately, if you are pregnant, you won't be able to take part.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have you been recently diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer that's less than 2cm in size?
- Has your doctor confirmed the cancer hasn't spread to lymph nodes or outside the thyroid?
- Have you not had previous surgery for thyroid problems?
- Are you not currently pregnant?
- Do you feel well enough to participate in regular check-ups or surgery if chosen?
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, you'll be followed by doctors for up to 10 years. If you choose active surveillance, you'll have regular check-ups at the study centre. If you choose immediate surgery, you'll have your usual care from your surgeon and cancer specialists.
The study team will regularly check your medical records to see how your thyroid cancer is progressing and how you're responding to treatment. You'll also be asked to fill out questionnaires about how you're feeling and your quality of life once a year for up to 5 years. There are no study medications involved; it's about observing the different choices patients make.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (8)
- University of Calgary, Cumming School of MedicineVerified postcodeCalgary, Canada
- University of British ColumbiaVerified postcodeVancouver, Canada
- Nova Scotia HealthVerified postcodeHalifax, Canada
- St. Joseph's HealthcareVerified postcodeHamilton, Canada
- Lawson Health Research InstituteVerified postcodeLondon, Canada
- University Health NetworkVerified postcodeToronto, Canada
- Division chirurgie ORL et cervico-facialeVerified postcodeMontreal, Canada
- CHU de Québec - Université LavalVerified postcodeQuébec, Canada
Common questions
What is 'papillary thyroid cancer'?
It's the most common type of thyroid cancer. When it's small and low-risk, it often grows very slowly or not at all.
What is 'active surveillance'?
Instead of immediate surgery, doctors closely watch the cancer with regular scans and check-ups. Surgery would only happen if the cancer grows or if you change your mind.
What does 'low-risk' mean in this study?
It means the cancer is small (under 2cm), hasn't spread to other places, and isn't in a position that would cause problems if it slightly grew.
Will I have to take new medicines for this study?
No, this study doesn't involve any new medicines. It's about observing the outcomes of two existing approaches for treating thyroid cancer.
How long will I be followed in this study?
You'll be followed for up to 10 years to see the long-term results of your treatment choice.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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