First Public Screening For Head, Neck Cancers Offered

NEW HAVEN — The Hospital of Saint Raphael is hosting its first screening for head and neck cancers in an effort to raise awareness about the common but little-known diseases. The screening is scheduled from 2 to 6 pm on Wednesday, April 14, at the Father Michael J. McGivney Center for Cancer Care.

Head and neck cancers are the sixth most common kind of cancer in the United States, affecting upper body structures including the thyroid, oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, and salivary glands. The disease can be deadly and disfiguring, as in the case of the movie critic Roger Ebert, who has lost part of his jaw.

“It’s a disease that’s very common, but people don’t know that much about it,” said Ken Yanagisawa, MD, section chief of otolaryngology at Saint Raphael’s. “If people aren’t aware, there’s delayed diagnosis. Like any other cancer, the further along it’s detected, the higher the mortality and morbidity.”

Those who smoke and drink are most at risk for head and neck cancers, which often originate in the mucous membranes in the upper body.

Symptoms can include a sore that doesn’t heal, a persistent sore throat, or hoarseness that does not improve over time, Dr Yanagisawa said. A lump in the neck that lasts more than several weeks, especially if it becomes hard or fixed to the underlying tissues, can be a sign that a head and neck cancer may be present.

In February, Denver Nuggets Coach George Karl announced that he had been diagnosed with head and neck cancer and would undergo intensive treatment. Karl had noticed a lump on his neck for some time but had dismissed it as fatty tissue, according to ESPN.

“This cancer can be deadly and disfiguring,” Dr Yanagisawa said. “If you catch head and neck cancers early enough, you can often cure them. We want to get the word out.”

To schedule a screening appointment, call 203-789-3275.