Head and Neck Cancer: Unveiling Risks and Prevention

Host: Mindy McCulley, MS Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Specialist for Instructional Support, University of Kentucky 

Guest: Dr. Melina Windon, MD,  Assistant Professor of Otolaryngology, UK Markey Cancer Center

Cancer Conversations Episode 63

In this episode of Cancer Conversations on Talking FACS, Dr. Melina Windon, an Assistant Professor of Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery at the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center, discusses head and neck cancers. Dr. Windon provides insights into her specialty, emphasizing the critical aspects of cancer diagnosis, treatment, and reconstructive surgery, which restores patients' ability to speak and swallow.

Listeners will gain valuable knowledge about the primary risk factors for head and neck cancer, including tobacco use, HPV exposure, and heavy alcohol consumption. Dr. Windon highlights the importance of the HPV vaccine as a preventive measure, particularly targeting both boys and girls at a young age. She also explains the significance of routine oral cancer screenings and early detection of symptoms like persistent spots or lumps in the mouth or neck.

The episode underscores the higher incidence and mortality rates of head and neck cancer in Kentucky, stressing the urgency for awareness and timely medical intervention. Tune in to learn more about preventing and managing these formidable cancers and the role of groundbreaking reconstructive surgery in restoring quality of life for affected individuals.

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