How common are nodules in the thyroid?
In a word – VERY. It is estimated that about 50% of the population will develop a small, unnoticeable thyroid nodule at some time in their life. Most nodules are never detected and do not cause problems. In fact they are only found by doing an ultrasound, many nodules are found while doing a CT scan or MR for other reasons. This is called a thyroid nodule incidentaloma. Only 4-7% of the population will have a nodule that is large enough to be found by a physician feeling, or palpating, for it. They are more common in women and the incidence of nodules increases with age. About 4% of women aged 20 years have a palpable nodule whereas 9% of women over age 70 have a palpable nodule. Nodules are only found in about 1% of men. How do I tell if I have a nodule? You can check your own thyroid by standing in front of a mirror. Look at the area of your neck just above the notch where the collarbone comes together and just below the Adam’s apple. This is where the thyroid gland is located. If po
