Chicago City Wire

Head and neck cancers, affecting areas such as the mouth, nose, and throat, represent almost 4% of new cancer diagnoses in the United States, impacting over 70,000 patients annually. During April, UI Health is observing Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, focusing on symptoms and treatments.

Dr. Nicholas Callahan, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon at UI Health, noted, "Head and neck cancers have a bad reputation, but if we find them in the early stages and get patients to treatment quickly, they have a high survival rate and excellent quality of life." The most effective way to detect these cancers early is through regular screenings, which are noninvasive and quick, taking about five minutes.

Risk factors for these cancers primarily include age over 50, tobacco, and alcohol use, as well as HPV exposure. Although men are more at risk, a concerning trend shows increasing cases among younger women without any typical risk factors. Symptoms such as lumps, persistent pain, and difficulty swallowing warrant prompt consultation with a healthcare provider.

In support of awareness, UI Health, alongside the University of Illinois Cancer Center, Mile Square Health Center, and the UIC College of Dentistry, is hosting free screening events from April 14 to 18. No appointments or insurance are necessary, and walk-ins are welcomed.

UI Health offers comprehensive treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and medical therapies like chemotherapy or immunotherapy. Dr. Callahan emphasized, "We have a very large, multidisciplinary team made up of medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists, as well as reconstructive surgeons, nurse navigators, and many others. All of us work together with the goal of ensuring patients can maintain their quality of life throughout their treatment."

Individuals are encouraged to prioritize their health by visiting the Head & Neck Cancer Program and attending free screening events this April.