National Oral, Head, and Neck Cancer Awareness Week: Screening Update

This week is recognized as National Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week, a weeklong observance that focuses on promoting education and awareness around the many types of cancers of the head, neck and mouth. 

Recent clinical research has drawn attention to screening approaches for these types of diseases. A recent study completed by the University of Pittsburgh discovered that screening for head and neck cancer, in addition to lung cancer for eligible candidates, could improve early detection and survival rates. 

The study analyzed records of more than 3,500 people enrolled in a lung-screening program to determine if these participants had a higher chance of developing head and neck cancer. The results showed that an incidence rate of 71.4 per 100,000 people were expected to develop head and neck cancer annually from this group, compared to the rate of fewer than 43 per 100,000 people in the general U.S. population. 

“Head and neck cancer is relatively rare, and screening the general population would be impractical,” said co-author David O. Wilson. “However, the patients at risk for lung cancer whom we would refer for the newly recommended annual screening are the same patients that our study shows also likely would benefit from regular head and neck cancer screenings.” 

To read more about the study, visit Medical News Today. For more information on oral, head or neck cancers or to schedule a consultation, contact our center. CyberKnife® technology treats certain forms of head and neck cancer such as acoustic neuromas, ocular and orbital tumors and skull base tumors. 

This is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of your health care team. It is intended to help you and your family make informed decisions, together with your doctor.