From 2010-2013, Abi Phillips embraced the role of Liberty Savage on Hollyoaks, a British fictionalized TV series about the lives of teenagers and their families. The program has since been lauded for its coverage of difficult topics such as substance abuse, infidelity, and sexual assault. Now, Abi is raising her voice about another difficult topic – her recent diagnosis with thyroid cancer at age 28, shares GB News.
On her Instagram page, the now singer-songwriter explains that she had previously discovered two lumps in her neck. Concerned, she visited her doctor, who told her that it was nothing to worry about. The doctor explained that Abi could just be fighting off some sort of infection or cold.
However, Abi sought out the help of a specialist after advice from Demi Jones, a Love Island star who was also diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Demi explained the importance of checking out unusual lumps or areas on the body. Early detection can be incredibly crucial for treatment and best outcomes. So Abi saw a specialist – and this time, her concerns were heard. After a biopsy and some tests, Abi was officially diagnosed with thyroid cancer.
Moving forward, she will be undergoing radiotherapy, as well as surgical intervention, to treat her cancer. For her fans and those tuning into her journey, Abi also tells people to be their own biggest advocates. If you are concerned about something involving your health, pursue it! Find a doctor or specialist who cares and is willing to help.
We wish Abi the best in her treatment and recovery!
About Thyroid Cancer
As the name suggests, thyroid cancer begins in the thyroid, a gland located at the base of your throat which produces hormones that control blood pressure, weight, and even heart rate. Risk factors for developing thyroid cancer include radiation exposure, a family history of thyroid cancer, genetic conditions such as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A or type 2B, and being female.
There are multiple different forms of thyroid cancer, such as papillary, medullary, follicular, and anaplastic. While papillary thyroid cancer is the most common, the additional three listed are rarer forms. Symptoms may not appear until the cancer has progressed. Once symptoms do appear, these may include:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Hoarseness or vocal changes
- Chronic cough
- Neck and throat pain and inflammation
- A lump in the neck
- Fatigue
- Swollen lymph nodes
Learn more about thyroid cancer.
