Cancer of the head and neck is the sixth most-common form of cancer in the United States. Yet, many people don’t recognize the symptoms of these life-threatening diseases, which can be easily treated if diagnosed early.
The University of Central Florida Communication Disorders Clinic, Florida Hospital Cancer Institute and The Ear Nose and Throat Surgical Associates will jointly offer free individual risk assessments for head and neck cancer on Tuesday, April 26.
The risk assessments will take place from 1:30 to 2 p.m. at the Winter Park Memorial Hospital Medical Library, 200 Lakemont Ave., Winter Park, and from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the YMCA Crosby Wellness Center, 2005 Mizell Ave., Winter Park.
Each assessment is painless and only takes about 10 minutes.
To schedule a risk assessment, call the Florida Hospital Friends and Family Helpline at 407-303-3627.
Risk factors for head and neck cancer include tobacco and alcohol use, human papilloma virus (HPV) diagnosis, regular exposure to ultraviolet radiation and acid reflux disease diagnosis, according to Bari Hoffman Ruddy, associate professor of communication sciences and disorders and lead coordinator of the event.
Earlier in the day, an expert panel comprising physicians and nurses, a dentist, a speech pathologist and Hoffman Ruddy will discuss current trends and team managment in treating head and neck cancers.
The panel discussion will take place from 12 to 1:30 p.m. at the Winter Park Memorial Hospital Medical Library.
To attend the panel discussion, please RSVP by calling 407-303-1700.
For further information, contact Bari.HoffmanRuddy@ucf.edu.