April is Head and Neck Cancer awareness month
The “Head and Neck Support Group” is dedicated to assisting the efforts of the Keck School of Medicine’s efforts and will aid them to the best of our abilities. The Mission of the researchers at the USC Keck School of Medicine is to further perfect early detection, prevention, and the development of novel therapies.
The Head and Neck Cancer Support Program has established several goals. Some of the goals are long term and some are short term.
One of the most important goals we have is to Raise Awareness of Head and Neck Cancer among the general population and among medical professionals. With that intent, we hold events each year to give a voice to our mission.
Support groups in April
HNC Support Group on April 2nd at 10am, for our monthly HNC Support group. HNC patients and survivors gather, chat, share personal stories/experiences and gather helpful information from others. Register & join >
Coffee with the Caregivers on April 9th, 23rd, and the 30th at 10am. Caregivers can ask other caregivers questions, share information, and learn from each other. Register & join >
Photos: Moments from our support groups, events, and fundraisers over the past 16+ years along with photos received from patients, survivors, and those wishing to share their stories with you.
About head and neck cancer
Head and neck cancer is more common among men than women. These cancers are also diagnosed more often among people over age 50 than among younger people.
The symptoms of head and neck cancers may include a lump or a sore that does not heal, a sore throat that does not go away, difficulty in swallowing, and a change or hoarseness in the voice.
How common are head and neck cancers?
According to information from the Head and Neck Cancer Alliance (formerly the Yul Brynner Head and Neck Cancer Foundation), with more than 100,000 new cases diagnosed annually in the United States, head and neck cancer is reportedly the sixth most common form of cancer in the world.
Risk factors
Alcohol and tobacco use are major risk factors for head and neck cancers. Other risk factors for these cancers include:
- Eating preserved or salted foods.
- Poor oral hygiene and missing teeth.
- Occupational exposure to wood dust, asbestos, and synthetic fibers.
- Radiation exposure.
- Epstein-Barr virus infection.
- Asian ancestry, particularly Chinese ancestry.
Are you a caregiver? We’re here for you!
We know it can be difficult at times. If you are looking for someone that can offer you some insight complete this form to send an email to one of our experienced caregivers. Click here to send a message.
Support group for HNC caregivers
Have you ever wanted to ask another caregiver a question about how they cope with the tasks, worries, and routines of caring for a loved one with head and neck cancer? Would you like a chance to share information and learn from others who are in your shoes? Register & join.