Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What Is Oral, Head and Neck Cancer?
- Risk Factors and Causes
- Recognizing the Symptoms Early
- The Link Between HPV and Throat Cancer
- Screening and Diagnosis: Why It Matters
- Dr. Celina Nadelman’s Role in Early Detection
- How to Reduce Your Risk
- What to Do if You Notice Symptoms
- Conclusion: Awareness Begins With Action
Introduction
Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week, recognized annually in April, is a crucial time for increasing public understanding of these often-overlooked cancers. From April 16 through April 22, 2025, healthcare providers, advocacy groups, and specialists across the country will focus their efforts on promoting education, screenings, and early detection. These cancers can be life-threatening if not found early, but timely intervention can make all the difference.
Dr. Celina Nadelman, a highly respected pathologist and fine needle aspiration (FNA) specialist in Los Angeles, stands at the forefront of early diagnostic care. Through accurate biopsies and a commitment to patient-centered communication, Dr. Nadelman helps individuals receive timely answers when facing uncertain symptoms.
What Is Oral, Head and Neck Cancer?
Oral, head and neck cancers refer to a group of diseases that can develop in the mouth, throat, larynx, nose, sinuses, and salivary glands. These cancers often originate in the squamous cells that line the moist surfaces of these areas. Common types include:
- Oral cavity cancer (including lips, tongue, and gums)
- Oropharyngeal cancer (affecting the back of the throat, base of the tongue, and tonsils)
- Laryngeal cancer (voice box)
- Nasal cavity and sinus cancer
- Salivary gland cancer
According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, nearly 54,000 Americans are diagnosed each year with oral or oropharyngeal cancer, and these conditions are becoming increasingly linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Risk Factors and Causes
Several lifestyle and environmental factors can increase the risk of developing these cancers. Key risk factors include:
- Tobacco use (including smoking and smokeless tobacco)
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- HPV infection, especially HPV-16
- Prolonged sun exposure (in the case of lip cancer)
- Poor oral hygiene and dental health
- Exposure to certain industrial substances, such as asbestos or wood dust
Men are more likely than women to develop these cancers, and the risk increases significantly for individuals over the age of 50.
Recognizing the Symptoms Early
Early detection of oral, head and neck cancers can lead to better treatment outcomes. However, these cancers often go unnoticed until symptoms become more serious. Some of the early warning signs include:
- A sore in the mouth that does not heal
- Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
- Difficulty swallowing or chewing
- Lumps in the neck, jaw, or mouth
- Ear pain without infection
- White or red patches inside the mouth
- Numbness in the face, mouth, or neck
If any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, medical evaluation is essential. Routine dental checkups and awareness of subtle changes in your body can be the first line of defense.
The Link Between HPV and Throat Cancer
While tobacco and alcohol have long been established causes of oral cancers, HPV has become a leading cause of oropharyngeal cancers. This shift is especially significant among younger, non-smoking individuals.
HPV-related throat cancers tend to form in the tonsils or the base of the tongue. Unlike other forms of oral cancer, HPV-related cancers can be harder to detect early due to their location. Public health initiatives now emphasize the importance of HPV vaccination for boys and girls as a preventive measure.
Screening and Diagnosis: Why It Matters
Many oral, head and neck cancers can be detected through visual exams or minimally invasive tests. Early detection dramatically increases the chance of successful treatment and can often mean less aggressive therapies. Regular screenings are encouraged for those with known risk factors or persistent symptoms.
Fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy is one of the most effective tools used to evaluate suspicious lumps or masses in the head and neck. This procedure involves extracting a small tissue sample using a thin needle and allows for quick, accurate diagnosis.
Dr. Celina Nadelman’s Role in Early Detection
Dr. Celina Nadelman is a board-certified cytopathologist who specializes in performing fine needle aspiration biopsies. From her Beverly Hills office, she sees patients from across Southern California who need expert diagnostic evaluation for neck masses, salivary gland abnormalities, and other potentially concerning findings.
Dr. Nadelman works closely with referring physicians and ENT specialists to provide same-day evaluations and on-site readings. Her hands-on approach ensures that each patient not only receives fast results but also fully understands the process and next steps.
For patients facing uncertainty, this level of expertise can reduce anxiety and shorten the time between symptom onset and treatment.
How to Reduce Your Risk
While not all cases of oral, head and neck cancer can be prevented, there are practical steps you can take to reduce your risk:
- Stop using tobacco products and avoid secondhand smoke
- Limit or avoid alcohol consumption
- Receive the HPV vaccine if eligible
- Maintain good oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly
- Use lip balm with SPF protection to guard against sun damage
- Stay aware of any persistent changes in your mouth, throat, or neck
Public awareness efforts during this week serve as a reminder that prevention and vigilance are key. Empowering individuals to take control of their health can lead to earlier diagnoses and better outcomes.
What to Do if You Notice Symptoms
If you notice unusual symptoms that last more than two weeks, such as a persistent sore throat, lump, or voice change, do not wait to seek help. Begin with your primary care provider or dentist. If further evaluation is needed, a referral to a specialist like Dr. Nadelman may be the next step.
Fine needle aspiration biopsy is quick, low risk, and often the clearest path to answers. Dr. Nadelman ensures each patient receives not only expert-level diagnostics but also compassionate and clear communication throughout the process.
Conclusion: Awareness Begins With Action
Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week is more than a campaign. It is an opportunity to educate, support early diagnosis, and encourage open conversations about symptoms and risk factors. As cases linked to HPV continue to rise, particularly among men, early detection is more important than ever.
Dr. Celina Nadelman offers patients a vital service by providing precise and efficient fine needle aspiration biopsies for suspicious head and neck conditions. Her work helps patients gain clarity and access the right care without delay.
If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent symptoms or has been referred for a biopsy, do not hesitate to reach out. Visit drnadelman.com to learn more or schedule an appointment.
