Reid Health offers free head and neck cancer screenings this April
March 13, 2025 -- Reid Health Rehabilitation Services, Reid ENT, and Reid Oncology Associates are offering free head and neck cancer screenings.
The screenings will be held:
- April 9: From 1-5 p.m. at the Reid Health - Connersville Atrium, 1941 Virginia Ave.
- April 10: From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Reid Health in Lingle Grand Hall, 1100 Reid Parkway, Richmond
The screening
is painless and takes about 10 minutes. No appointment is necessary, and
walk-ins are welcome.
Head and neck cancer affects the mouth, nose, sinuses, throat, salivary glands, and voice box. These types of cancers claim nearly 13,000 American lives each year with men and adults over 50 being at higher risk.
Early detection saves lives. If diagnosed
early, the cancers can be treated more easily, usually without significant
complications and with greatly increased survival odds.
Tobacco and
alcohol users are at the highest risk, but oral cancers are rising among young
non-smokers because of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Spread through sexual or
skin-to-skin contact, HPV can cause oropharyngeal cancer, which is difficult to
detect as it often develops at the back of the tongue or on the tonsils.
Regular screenings are key for early diagnosis.
More than 110,000
Americans were diagnosed with cancers of the head and neck last year.
Unfortunately, many don't recognize the symptoms of these life-threatening
diseases, which include cancers of the oral cavity, larynx, and pharynx.
There are a few
visible signs that require immediate attention, including:
- A lump or swelling in the neck
- Voice changes or hoarseness lasting more than two weeks
- Growths, sores, or red/white patches in the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing, speaking, or breathing
- Persistent ear pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Bringing up blood
Persons who
have any of these warning signs shouldn't wait for free screenings. They need
to seek medical attention immediately.
For more
information, call (765) 983-3092. To learn more about other preventive
screenings available at Reid Health, visit reidhealth.org/screenings.