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Wednesday, Mar. 23, 2005 | ||
Facts about head and neck cancerHead and neck cancers are small, but can be devastating. According to the Yul Brynner Head and Neck Cancer Foundation, these types of cancers account for 3 percent of all cancers in the United States, and an estimated 45,000 men and women developed head and neck cancer in 2004. Particularly in the South, head and neck cancers originating in the lining of the mouth and throat are of particular concern because there is a known link between the development of head and neck cancer and the use of tobacco products (including smokeless tobacco) and alcohol. Eighty-five percent of all head and neck cancers can be attributed to tobacco, and the additional use of alcohol increases risk. Men, African-Americans and those older than 50 are also at greater risk. It is vitally important that those at risk educate themselves about this form of cancer and receive regular early screenings. Head and neck cancers are those that arise in certain structures of the head and neck, including the mouth or oral cavity, the salivary glands, the sinuses and nasal cavity, the pharynx and larynx (structures in the neck), lymph nodes in the neck, the thyroid gland and skin cancers. Brain tumors and eye cancers are usually not considered to be head and neck cancers. According to the National Cancer Institute, symptoms of head and neck cancers may include difficulty swallowing, a change or hoarseness in the voice, a sore throat that does not go away and a lump or sore that does not heal. Other symptoms specific to certain areas of the head and neck include: · Oral cavity a white or red patch on the gums, tongue or in the mouth; swelling along the jaw; and unusual bleeding or pain in the mouth. · Sinuses and nasal cavity chronic sinus infections or blockages that do not respond to treatment; nosebleeds; frequent headaches; swelling or other problems with the eyes; and pain in the upper teeth. · Salivary glands swelling under the chin or around the jawbone; numbness or paralysis in the facial muscles; and pain in the face, chin or neck that does not go away. · Pharynx and larynx Ringing or pain in the ears; pain when swallowing; trouble hearing, breathing or speaking; and frequent headaches. · Neck cancer Pain in the neck or throat that does not go away. It is important that those at risk for head and neck cancers be screened early. Screenings include an actual physical examination in which a physician visually inspects the mouth, nasal cavities, neck, throat and tongue using a small mirror and lights. The physician will also feel for lumps along the neck, jaw, cheeks, gumline and along the lips. More intensive screening tools include endoscopy, X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans and biopsies. Check with your local hospitals and clinics to see if they offer free physical screenings during Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week, April 11-17. Remember, it's never too early to diagnose cancer. If you are at risk, take steps now to help ensure your good health down the road. | ||
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