The exact cause of most thyroid cancers is unknown. However, certain factors can increase the risk of developing thyroid cancer, including:

• Radiation exposure: Exposure to high doses of radiation, particularly during childhood, increases the risk of developing thyroid cancer.

• Inherited genetic mutations: Some inherited genetic mutations, such as changes in the RET gene, can increase the risk of developing thyroid cancer.

• Non-cancerous thyroid conditions: Certain non-cancerous thyroid conditions, such as an enlarged thyroid gland (goitre) or Hashimotos disease, can increase the risk of developing thyroid cancer.

• Gender and age: Thyroid cancer is more common in women than in men during their reproductive years, and it peaks in women between the ages of 40 and 44 years. Men are more likely to develop thyroid cancer at an older age, between 70 and 74 years.

• Being overweight or obese: The risk of thyroid cancer is higher in people who are overweight or obese.

• Other factors: Other factors that may increase the risk of thyroid cancer include a diet low in iodine, certain hormonal factors such as pregnancy and the use of oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, and a family history of thyroid cancer.

Its important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not necessarily mean that a person will develop thyroid cancer. Many people with thyroid cancer have no known risk factors.