Just say ahh! SWOK cancer center offer free screenings in Lawton
- mattmoran9
- Apr 4, 2018
- 2 min read
On April 21, 2018 the Cancer Centers of Southwest Oklahoma will be offering free head and neck cancer screenings. These will take place at the Leah M. Fitch Cancer Center in Lawton, OK (104 NW 31st Street). The screenings will be held from 8 a.m. until noon, and appointments can be made by calling 580-250-6565.
What is a head and neck screening?
A head an neck cancer screening is a simple visual exam of the head, neck and oral cavity (shown in video below). This screening typically checks for tumors in various areas including:
Nasal passages
Sinuses
Mouth
Throat
Larynx (voice box)
Swallowing passages
Salivary glands
Thyroid glands
What causes tumors in these areas?
The biggest cause of head and neck tumors are heavy alcohol consumption and tobacco use.
Heavy alcohol use is considered to be use that exceeds the daily recommended limit for men and women. For men, this is two alcoholic drinks per day, and for women, it is one alcoholic drink per day.
If you are a current tobacco user, find out why it's never too late to quit.
How often should I have a head and neck screening performed?
It is recommended that every individual receive a head and neck screening at least once per year. For those in Southwest Oklahoma, this can be done by attending the event listed above. You can also have your primary care physician perform the screening as well.
You should also seek medical advice in the event that you are experiencing health problems due to any of the following symptoms in the head and neck area:
Swelling or sore that refuses to heal
Jaw pain
Bump or mass in the neck area (with or without pain)
Red or white patch in mouth
Foul breath unexplained by hygiene
Change in voice or hoarseness
Difficulty breathing
Double vision
Pain or difficulty swallowing, chewing or moving jaw or tongue
Blood in saliva or phlegm
Nasal obstruction or chronic congestion
Frequent nose bleeds or unusual nasal discharge
Sunshine Home Care provides home health in Lawton, OK and most of Western Oklahoma. For more information on our agency, visit here or contact us today.
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