The Kannada film industry is mourning the loss of veteran actor Harish Roy, best known for his role as “Chacha” in KGF: Chapter 1 and Chapter 2. The 55-year-old actor passed away after a long battle with thyroid cancer, which had reportedly progressed to an advanced stage.
Harish Roy had earlier shared that he first noticed a swelling in his neck, which he initially ignored. Despite his illness, he continued working during the filming of KGF. Eventually, his condition worsened, and doctors diagnosed him with Stage IV thyroid cancer.
What Is Thyroid Cancer?
Thyroid cancer begins in the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped gland in the neck responsible for regulating metabolism and hormones. It’s one of the more treatable forms of cancer when detected early, but it can become dangerous if ignored.
Common types include:
- Papillary thyroid cancer (70–80%) – slow-growing and highly treatable.
- Follicular thyroid cancer (20%) – also slow-growing but can spread if untreated.
- Medullary and Anaplastic thyroid cancers – rare and more aggressive.
Early Signs You Should Never Ignore
Thyroid cancer often develops silently. However, a few warning signs can help you catch it early:
- Lump or swelling in the front of the neck that gradually increases in size.
- Hoarseness or voice changes that persist.
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing.
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
- Persistent cough without infection.
If any of these symptoms appear, especially a new neck lump, seek medical advice immediately.
Risk Factors for Thyroid Cancer
While anyone can develop thyroid cancer, certain factors increase the risk:
- Radiation exposure, especially to the head or neck during childhood.
- Family history or genetic syndromes like MEN2.
- Women are more likely to develop it than men due to hormonal influences.
- Obesity, which promotes inflammation and hormonal changes.
- Benign thyroid conditions, like goitre or nodules.
Also Read: Dubai-Based Travel Influencer Anunay Sood Passes Away at 32; Family Requests Privacy
Prevention and Care
Although thyroid cancer can’t always be prevented, awareness and early action matter.
- Limit unnecessary radiation to the neck or head.
- Maintain a healthy body weight and lifestyle.
- Monitor family history and seek genetic counseling if needed.
- Perform self-neck checks regularly for any changes.
Treatment often includes surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, hormone replacement, and regular follow-ups with a doctor.
Harish Roy’s passing is a reminder of how crucial early detection is. If you experience any persistent neck swelling or voice changes, consult a medical professional without delay.
