Physicians’ Clinic of Iowa to Offer Free Screenings During Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week®.

CEDAR RAPIDS—April 19, 2012— Just because you can’t feel it, doesn’t mean it isn’t there.  Just ask the more than 50,000 Americans who were diagnosed with cancers of the head and neck last year.  Unfortunately, many Americans do not recognize the symptoms of these life-threatening diseases, which include cancers of the oral cavity, larynx and pharynx, and by the time they are diagnosed, for some, it’s too late. 

Oral, head and neck cancers claim approximately 12,000 lives per year. However, there is hope; if diagnosed early, these cancers can be more easily treated without significant complications, and the chances of survival greatly increase.  

Who should get tested?

Every adult. Tobacco and alcohol users traditionally have been considered the populations at greatest risk for these cancers.  However, oral cancer cases are on the rise in younger adults who do not smoke, and recent research indicates this development is due partly to the increase of the human papillomavirus (HPV) virus, a cancer-causing infection that can be transmitted by oral sex.  HPV-related oral cancers are more difficult to detect because these cancers usually occur on the back of the tongue or on the tonsils, providing even more reason to get screened regularly.

What are the potential warning signs of oral cancers?

The signs and symptoms of oral cancer often go unnoticed.  However, there are a few visible signs associated with these cancers that require immediate attention, including:

• A sore in your mouth that doesn't heal or that increases in size
• Persistent pain in your mouth
• Lumps or white or red patches inside your mouth
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing or moving your tongue
• Soreness in your throat or feeling that something is caught in your throat
• Changes in your voice
• A lump in your neck

If you have any of the above warning signs, do not wait for the free screenings. Seek medical attention immediately.

How can I get screened locally?

Physicians’ Clinic of Iowa providers will offer free oral cancer screenings in observance of the 15th annual Oral, Head, and Neck Cancer Awareness Week® (OHANCAW®.) OHANCAW is sponsored nationally by the Head and Neck Cancer Alliance. Screening is painless and only takes about 10 minutes. 

• Tuesday, April 24, 2012—12:30PM to 4PM
  Helen G. Nassif Community Cancer Center of Iowa
  Medical Plaza Building, 855 A Ave. NE, Cedar Rapids
  Call: (319) 558-4876
  
  
• Wednesday, April 25, 2012—9AM to 11AM & 1PM to 3PM
  Physicians’ Clinic of Iowa—Ear, Nose & Throat
  901 8th Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids
  Call:  (319) 399-2022
  
  
• Thursday, April 26, 2012—3PM to 7PM
  Hall-Perrine Cancer Center: 701 10th St. SE, Cedar Rapids
  Call:  (319) 221-8771

Screenings appointments are limited will be provided by these PCI providers:  Dr. Kevin Carpenter, Dr. Ryan Dempewolf, Dr. Scott Huebsch, Dr. Jeffrey Krivit, Dr. Mary Susan Pruzinsky, Holly Copeland, ARNP, Bridget Peters, PA-C

Why should I get screened?

If the above stats weren’t reason enough, know that the screening is quick, painless and free, and it’s right around the corner. Given the current state of the economy and rising health care costs, take advantage of the opportunity to benefit from this preventive health measure at no charge by taking 10 minutes to do something that could save your life. Early diagnosis and treatment improves outcomes and chances of survival, particularly for individuals with HPV-related oral cancers. Please sign up for your free oral cancer screening today. 

About Physicians’ Clinic of Iowa

Physicians’ Clinic of Iowa, founded in Cedar Rapids in 1997, is one of the largest, private, multispecialty medical groups in Iowa. More than 75 board certified physicians, surgeons, and mid-level providers offer high quality medical care to eastern Iowa communities. For more information, visit www.pcofiowa.com. 

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