Head and Neck Cancer Screenings Make a Positive Impact in Urban Areas

Free head and neck cancer screenings can have a positive impact in urban communities via the detection of various health issues, according to a new study from Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.

The study found that those who attend free head and neck cancer screenings were more likely to be African Americans, a current smoker and have a history of treatment for some sort of cancer other than those living in suburban communities.

The study also shows free screenings and related education are well-received, particularly in a racially diverse urban community such as Detroit.

"Offering free head and neck cancer screenings to the community is valuable resource that has a positive impact," says study lead author Tamer A. Ghanem, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Head and Neck Oncology & Microvascular Surgery Division and division chief of the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Henry Ford Hospital, via a press release. "Our study shows we have an opportunity to further enhance these screenings by including an evaluation of behavioral risks associated with head and neck cancer, and the patient's knowledge of those risk factors, such as smoking and alcohol use."

The study was presented at the 2013 American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery annual meeting in Vancouver, BC.

Background information from the study shows that approximately three percent of all cancer cases in the country are due to head and neck cancers. These types can occur in the mouth, throat, larynx (voice box), swallowing passages, nasal passages and salivary glands.

Tobacco or heavy alcohol use can also play a role in the development of the disease.

Researchers surveyed 118 people who attended the free head and neck screening day in 2012 and 2013 in order to determine various risk factors for multi-ethnic urban areas vs. suburban populations. The participants ranged from 23 to 85 years old.

In addition to the free screening in Detroit, Henry Ford also hosts annual free head and neck cancer screenings in several metro Detroit suburban areas.

Among those in the study, people living in an urban area reported more cumulative years consuming alcohol than those living in a suburban area.

Most notably, researchers write that urban participants were more likely to volunteer for the free screenings and felt they helped provide an educational benefit regarding various cancers.

More information regarding the study can be found via a meeting that was presented at the 2013 American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery annual meeting in Vancouver, BC