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Community Corner

MidState to host free head and neck cancer screening

Just because you can’t feel it, doesn’t mean it isn’t there. Just ask the more than 50,000 Americans who were diagnosed with cancers of the head and neck last year. Unfortunately, many Americans do not recognize the symptoms of these life-threatening diseases, which include cancers of the oral cavity, larynx and pharynx, and by the time they are diagnosed, it’s too late. MidState will host a free head and neck cancer screening on Tuesday, April 22, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The screening will be held at MidState Medical Center on 435 Lewis Avenue, in The Cancer Center’s radiation therapy office.

          Oral, head and neck cancers claim approximately 12,000 lives per year. However, there is hope; if diagnosed early, these cancers can be more easily treated without complications, and the chances of survival greatly increase.

Who should get screened?

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The signs and symptoms of head and neck cancers often go unnoticed. However, there are a few visible signs associated with these cancers that require immediate attention, including:

  • A sore in your mouth that doesn’t heal or that increases in size
  • Persistent pain in your mouth
  • Lumps or white or red patches inside your mouth
  • Difficulty chewing or swallowing
  • Soreness in your throat or feeling that something is caught in your throat
  • Chronic hoarseness
  • A lump in your throat 

 

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Screening is quick, painless and free. It will consist of a thorough physical examination of the entire mouth, throat and neck.  Take advantage of the opportunity to benefit from this preventive health measure by taking 10 minutes to do something that could save your life. Please call 203.694.8631 to reserve your spot. Space is limited.

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