Ten Minutes That Could Save Your Life

    PASADENA, CA, May 22, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Leading Pasadena cosmetic dentist, Dr. H. Robert Stender, urges patients to take advantage of oral cancer screenings. Just because you can't feel it, doesn't mean it isn't there. Just ask the more than 50,000 Americans who were diagnosed with cancers of the head and neck last year. Unfortunately, many Americans do not recognize the symptoms of these life-threatening diseases, which include cancers of the oral cavity, larynx and pharynx, and by the time they are diagnosed, for some, it's too late.

Oral, head and neck cancers claim approximately 12,000 lives per year. However, there is hope. If diagnosed early, these cancers can be more easily treated without significant complications, and the chances of survival greatly increase.

Who should get tested?

Every adult. Tobacco and alcohol users traditionally have been considered the populations at greatest risk for these cancers. However, oral cancer cases are on the rise in younger adults who do not smoke, and recent research indicates this development is due partly to the increase of the human papillomavirus (HPV) virus, a cancer-causing infection that can be transmitted by oral sex. HPV-related oral cancers are more difficult to detect because these cancers usually occur on the back of the tongue or on the tonsils, providing even more reason to get screened regularly.

What are the potential warning signs of oral cancers?

The signs and symptoms of oral cancer often go unnoticed. However, there are a few visible signs associated with these cancers that require immediate attention, including:

* Red or white patches in the mouth that last more than two weeks
* Change in voice or hoarseness that lasts more than two weeks
* Sore throat that does not subside
* Pain or swelling in the mouth or neck that does not subside
* Lump in the neck
* Ear pain
* Difficulty speaking or swallowing
* Difficulty breathing

If you have any of the above warning signs, do not wait for the free screening. Seek medical attention immediately.

How can I get screened locally?

H. Robert Stender DDS, INC., a comprehensive dentist in Pasadena, will offer free oral cancer screenings in observance of the 14th annual Oral, Head, and Neck Cancer Awareness Week (OHANCAW) on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during the month of June 2011. The screening is painless and only takes about 10 minutes. Additionally, free screenings will be offered at more than 200 participating institutions worldwide in observance of OHANCAW throughout the year. Visit www.OHANCAW.com for the full list of participating sites and for more information. OHANCAW is sponsored nationally by the Head and Neck Cancer Alliance.

Why should I get screened?

If the above stats weren't reason enough, know that the screening is quick, painless and free, and it's right around the corner. Given the current state of the economy and rising health care costs, take advantage of the opportunity to benefit from this preventive health measure at no charge by taking 10 minutes to do something that could save your life. Early diagnosis and treatment improves outcomes and chances of survival, particularly for individuals with HPV-related oral cancers. Please contact H. Robert Stender DDS, INC., 200 South El Molino Avenue, Suite 6, Pasadena, CA 91101, Phone: 626.795.0221 to sign up for a free oral cancer screening today.

About H. Robert Stender DDS, Inc.: Dr. H. Robert Stender, a dentist in Pasadena, and his team of dental professionals strive to deliver exceptional dental care in a comfortable, state-of-the-art facility. Providing comprehensive family-oriented dentistry for more than thirty years, Dr. Stender is fully qualified in all aspects of comprehensive dentistry, including Pasadena Invisalign, cosmetic dentistry, sleep apnea, CEREC, endodontics, periodontics, and more.

Media Contact:
H. Robert Stender DDS, INC.
[email protected]
200 South El Molino Avenue, Suite 6
Pasadena, CA 91101
626.795.0221
http://www.pasadenalaserdentistry.com

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