April 2, 2009 Krista Hopson Khopson1@hfhs.org (313) 874-7207
DETROIT - Head and neck cancers account for approximately 3 percent of all cancer cases in this country. Since early detection not only saves lives, but also reduces the debilitating side-effects associated with this highly preventable type of cancer, Henry Ford Health System is holding free screenings on Monday, April 27.
Henry Ford has traditionally been the only local health provider to offer free head and neck cancer screenings during Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week, held the week of April 27. The week is spearheaded by The Head and Neck Cancer Alliance (formerly the Yul Brynner Head and Neck Cancer Foundation) to create a coalition in the fight against head and neck cancer.
The free screenings in the Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic will be held from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday, April 27 at the following locations:
Henry Ford Hospital, 2799 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit
Henry Ford Medical Center - Lakeside, 14500 Hall Road, Sterling Heights
Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital, 6777 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield
Henry Ford Medical Center - Fairlane, 19401 Hubbard Drive, Dearborn (NOTE: Screenings at this site will only be held from 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. on April 27.)
Head and neck cancer can occur in the mouth, throat, larynx (voice box), swallowing passages, salivary glands, thyroid gland and nasal passages. People who use tobacco or drink alcohol heavily are at higher risk than others to develop the disease. Most cases are found in people over the age of 40, and the disease is more common in African Americans than Caucasians.
People who use tobacco or drink heavily should be screened for head and neck cancer at least once a year. Cancer warning signs also include hoarseness, persistent throat and ear pain, mouth sores that won't heal or a lump in the neck.
To register for a free screening or for more information, call (586) 566-4286. Space is limited.
