Thyroid cancer: incidence, mortality and histological pattern in Denmark

In Denmark, as in many other countries, the incidence of thyroid cancer is increasing, while mortality from this disease is decreasing. The proportionate distribution of cell types is similar to that seen elsewhere. The increase in incidence in other countries has been attributed to the increased use of radiation for benign conditions of the head and neck. This cannot explain the increase in incidence in Denmark, and other factors may contribute importantly to the changing picture of thyroid cancer.