USA
Free Oral Cancer Screenings
By DOHMH, New York
Apr 6, 2005, 16:59

On Thursday, April 7, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) and other members of the Oral Cancer Consortium will offer free oral cancer screenings in locations throughout the five boroughs.

�Early detection is a powerful tool in successfully treating oral cancer, and preventing deaths from this disease,� said DOHMH Commissioner Thomas R. Frieden, MD, MPH. �I urge all New Yorkers to take advantage of these free screenings, which are quick, painless, and could save your life.�

Free screenings consist of a thorough examination provided by a dental professional. If an area of suspicion is found, a painless brush biopsy test will be administered to determine if any pre-cancerous or cancerous cells are present. The most common symptom is a red or white sore or lesion in the mouth that does not heal. Other signs include a lump or thickening in the cheek, or a painless white or red patch on the gums, tongue, tonsil, or lining of the mouth.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), every year, more than 30,000 cases of oral cancer are diagnosed in the United States; approximately 8,000 result in death.

Commissioner Frieden added, �Tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption are major risk factors for oral cancer, as well as many other diseases. For help quitting smoking, New Yorkers can call 311 . Help is also available for people with alcohol problems by calling 311 and asking for LIFENET .�

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