HEALTH

Head and neck cancer

To her credit, Susan Curry didn't scream when she learned she had cancer. She became very quiet, almost bewildered, as the doctor described how the disease had invaded her gums, the roof of her mouth and sinuses. It even crept into the base of her skull where countless delicate nerves and blood vessels travel to the brain. More »

Effective treatments require early diagnosis

Willia Goins, 70, now speaks in a whisper. She had her larynx, or voice box, removed about 14 years ago, and the whisper is as loud as it gets. Goins might speak quietly, but her message comes through loud and clear. "I always had problems with my throat," she explained. "Even when I was young." More »

Tobacco and alcohol: A dangerous combination

Cancer cells have glitches that keep them alive long past their normal lifespan. The rogue cells multiply again and again, snowballing into a tumor. Over time, they invade nearby tissue, crowding out normal cells. Some may travel to distant sites in the body and spark additional tumors. More »

Another good reason to visit the dentist

The oral cancer examination is painless and quick ? and life-saving. When cancers of the head and neck are found early, the cure rate is high. Annual screenings by a doctor or dentist should be a part of your regular physical or dental checkup. More »