15 May 0026

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USOSM Expands Access to Cancer Screenings

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In honor of Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, 49 U.S.

“Programs like these enable our surgeons to demonstrate their commitment to their communities,” said USOSM CEO Doug Drew. “They’re deeply devoted to providing high-quality OMS (oral and maxillofacial surgery) care—to making a significant difference in the lives of the people they treat, the communities they serve, and the OMS specialty they represent.”

April is widely recognized as Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, a time to increase awareness of the condition, risk factors, statistics, and screenings. The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be 60,480 new cases of oral cavity or oropharyngeal (middle throat) cancer—with 13,150 deaths attributed to it—in 2026.

“Early detection is key,” said Vincent J. Perciaccante, DDS, FACS, USOSM chief clinical officer and a practicing oral and maxillofacial surgeon with South Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. “The good news is that oral cancer has a survival rate of 80% to 90% when diagnosed early, according to the Head & Neck Cancer Foundation. That’s why cancer screenings like this are so important.”

The American Cancer Society reports that the average age of people diagnosed with these cancers is 64 and that one in five cases occurs in people younger than 55. Some risk factors to consider include smoking and alcohol use, genetic predisposition, nutrition, mouth/face injuries, oral hygiene, and certain medical conditions or diseases.

“We recommend annual screenings by a qualified healthcare professional, particularly since the number of early-onset cases continues to rise,” noted Dr. Perciaccante. “Monthly self-exams are also important. Using a bright light and mirror, look for any changes in or on your mouth, throat, or tongue—such as lumps, sores, or discolorations, particularly red or white patches. If you find anything out of the ordinary, contact your physician as soon as possible and get it checked out.”

Some additional common symptoms of oral cancer identified by the CDC include sores or pain in the mouth or throat that will not go away; swelling or unusual bleeding; or difficulty performing daily functions like breathing, speaking, chewing, or swallowing food.

In chronological order, categorized by free oral cancer screenings, USOSM participating partners include:

The Head & Neck Cancer Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness of oral, head and neck cancer. The foundation strives to produce measurable, progressive change through education, awareness, research, outreach, and advocacy. For more information, visit https://www.mnofs.com/head-neck-cancer-foundation .

Headquartered in Irving, Texas, USOSM sets the standard for oral and maxillofacial surgery management. A management services organization spanning 31 states, USOSM has built a best-in-class network of premier oral and maxillofacial surgeon partners. USOSM provides operational, financial, and administrative support services to fuel clinical excellence, innovation, and wealth creation. Visit: https://www.usosm.com .

Source: https://www.usosm.com/