Members of the UNMC community are invited to take advantage of free oral, head and neck cancer screenings set for next week.
The free screening is quick and painless and can help detect head and neck tumors at an early stage, improving the chances for successful treatment.
The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 118,000 new cancers involving the head and neck region will be diagnosed in 2014. Nearly 14,000 patients will die of head and neck cancers this year. These cancers typically involve the lining of the mouth, throat, the voice box, and glands such as the thyroid and salivary glands.
Although anyone may develop these tumors, they are more likely to be diagnosed in patients who have one or more risk factors. These include tobacco use, routine alcohol intake, infections with viruses such as HPV, and in certain cases a family history of similar tumors. Typically, patients are older and more likely to be men. However, some cancers seen in younger patients may be related to having multiple sexual partners and viral infections such as HPV.
Screening appointments are limited. Registration is required. Please call to schedule your screening at either of the two convenient locations:
Tuesday, April 22: 3 to 6 p.m.
The Nebraska Medical Center
42nd and Emile Streets
Free valet parking is available in the circle drive of The Lied Transplant Center’s main entrance. Volunteers will escort guests to the screening and back to their car. Call 800-922-0000 to schedule an appointment.
Thursday, April 24: 4 to 6 p.m.
Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center
8303 Dodge St.
Free valet parking is available at the main entrance to Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center, just south of Methodist Hospital on the 84th and Dodge Street campus. From Dodge Street, access the main entrance by taking the lower drive in the front of Methodist Hospital. Call 402-354-5850 to schedule an appointment.