Oral Cancer Screening in Palm Beach, FL
Screenings are essential
Oral and pharyngeal cancer affects 1 in 60 (1.7%) men and 1 in 140 (0.71%) women. The importance of an oral cancer screening can be catching cancer in the early and treatable stage.
The Importance of Regular Oral Cancer Screenings
Common cancers we hear about routinely, such as breast cancer and colon cancer, are severe cancers with a high death rate. However, over 40,000 Americans are being diagnosed each year with another type of cancer that doesn’t always hit the headlines: oral cancer. Oral cancer accounts for approximately 100 new cases each day in the United States, and the rate is continually increasing.
The office of Dr. Paul Melchiorre located in Palm Beach, Florida encourages patients to take a proactive approach toward getting a proper diagnosis as early as possible with routine oral cancer screenings.
What Are the Causes of Oral Cancer?
There are two common pathways that may lead to the development of oral cancer. The first is the use of tobacco and alcohol on a chronic or habitual basis. The other is through exposure to the human papillomavirus-HPV16, often referred to as HPV. However, anyone is at risk of developing oral cancer, and routine evaluations are necessary to reduce one’s risk and diagnose cases early enough for successful interventions.
Is Oral Cancer Screening Necessary?
While oral cancer was only associated with smoking cigarettes and chewing tobacco, more and more individuals are becoming susceptible to developing oral cancer. Therefore everyone needs to have oral cancer screenings regularly. Also, when cancer is caught in the earliest stages, patients have the best chance of beating it.
What to Anticipate During an Oral Cancer Screening?
Any concerning growths or lesions in the mouth that might indicate cancer are biopsied to remove a sample and evaluate it further for cancerous cells. With a proper diagnosis, patients can then discuss their treatment options with their medical providers.
Where To Go for Oral Cancer Screenings
Patients in the Palm Beach, FL area who are considering an oral cancer screening may be unsure who to visit. The office of Dr. Paul Melchiorre can assist! We provide oral cancer screenings during routine visits and assessments when problems arise. If you live in the community and are considering an oral cancer screening, contact us today at (561) 655-0666.