UTMDACC to offer free head and neck cancer screening exams on April 27

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center will offer free head and neck cancer screening exams to the public on Fri., April 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Cancer Prevention Center at the Cancer Prevention Building, 1155 Pressler Street, Floor 2.

Doctors will examine the entire mouth, throat and neck to check for head and neck cancers, including cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, skin, salivary and thyroid glands.

Appointments are not available and screening exams are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

"Though anyone can get cancer, tobacco and alcohol use, poor dental hygiene, and human papilloma virus infections can increase a person's chances of developing head and neck cancers," says Ann Marie Gillenwater, M.D., professor in the Department of Head and Neck Surgery.

"People at high risk for these cancers should speak with their doctors about ways to reduce their risks as well as how often to have checkups."

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, says the American Institute for Cancer Research. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 35,000 Americans are diagnosed with head and neck cancers each year, and more than 7,000 people die from these cancers.

Along with offering a wide range of screening and early detection services, the Cancer Prevention Center offers personalized risk-reduction strategies and prevention programs.