Head and Neck Cancer Often Described as the Most Visible Cancer

North Charleston, SC (April 25, 2022) – Cancers of the head and neck are often called the most visible cancers. They affect the throat, lips, mouth, nose and other areas. “Many patients have to relearn how to speak and eat and how to socialize,” said speech language pathologist Hannah Cornett, CCC-SLP, at Head and Neck Specialists – Charleston and who is one of the leaders of a new head and neck cancer support group.

In addition to the cancer’s impact on a patient’s physical health there’s also a significant impact on many patients' emotional health. Licensed social worker Missy Smith, LMSW, at Trident Medical Center specializes in caring for patients with cancer. She’ll also serve as a leader of the support group, says, “One of the goals of the support group is to remind patients they are not alone. Many patients tell us how much their community of family and friends helps them during their survivorship. Our support group will build on those relationships as we bring together survivors with our clinicians. There are many questions only survivors of head and neck cancer have. We will be there to help answer their questions and to support them.”

Support groups will be held the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. The first starts Tuesday, April 26.

  • Time: 1:00pm – 2:00pm
  • Locations: Head and Neck Specialists – Charleston l 9228 Medical Plaza Drive, 2nd Floor, Charleston, SC 29406
  • Register: Online at www.tridenthealthsystem.com/calendar or call (843) 797-3463 .
  • Other: Survivors can bring a guest. There is no charge to attend.

In the United States head and neck cancer accounts for about 4% of all cancers. The disease claims the lives of more than 15,000 people each year in the US. In SC, oral, esophagus, and larynx are among the most common head and neck cancers. More men are effected than women.

Common causes of head and neck cancer are the human papillomavirus (HPV), alcohol, tobacco use and occupational exposure.

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