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The Volunteer Voice E-Newsletter April, 2022 Special Edition

VIM not only provides medical, dental, behavioral health and specialty services but also education. Education is critical for the continued preventative services and future health of our patients.

What Is Oral Cancer?

Every year in the United States, it is estimated that more than 54,000 people will be diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer (cancer in the oral cavity and upper throat). People of all backgrounds have been shown to be equally as likely to get oral cancer, and it is expected that one person per hour, every day of the year, dies from this disease. During the month of April, dental professionals across the country come together to raise public awareness of oral cancer, its prevalence, and the steps each of us can take to mitigate the risks of developing this disease and protect the members of our communities as well. Studies show that one of the most effective measures we can take against oral cancer is finding the disease process early on in its development. During April, many dental professionals offer free screenings. At Volunteers in Medicine, our dental screenings are always free, but we could use your help to ensure our continued ability to keep Luzerne County healthy and prevent oral cancer in our area.

Click Here for More Information about Oral Cancer

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VIM Patient Experience

Chris is a 51 year old male who contacted VIM hoping to be seen for a mass under his tongue. The mass had been growing rapidly for over two months and the patient was unable to seek treatment because he had recently lost his health insurance. He was immediately seen by a volunteer healthcare provider and after a comprehensive examination, an appointment for a more extensive assessment of the mass was scheduled in the dental clinic. A biopsy was necessary to determine the pathology of the lesion. A local oral surgeon generously offered to perform the procedure for free. The pathology results determined that the lesion was an invasive squamous cell carcinoma in his mouth. The patient had a meeting with VIM's Social Care Coordinator to apply for Emergency Medical Assistance. Chris was approved for EMA and scheduled at Geisinger for the surgical removal of the tumor. Two days after the surgery, Chris rode his bicycle in the snow to thank the staff at VIM. There were many tears shared by all who focused on helping this patient get the care he needed.

The VIM Dental Clinic has seen numerous patients with oral tumors or lesions during the previous 14 years. Each case is taken with utmost seriousness and immediate attention. VIM is fortunate to have dental specialists that are generously willing to conduct biopsies, pathology and exams at no charge to our uninsured patients. Below are a couple other photos that were abscesses and not cancerous.

Risk Factors For You and Your family

Oral cancer is most prevalent in people over 50 years old with a history of heavy alcohol use and smoking. People who drink alcohol frequently or smoke are encouraged to visit their dentist for an oral cancer screening.

According to the CDC, about 39 million (1 in 8) Americans drink too much and about 31 million (1 in 10) Americans smoke or use tobacco products.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) has also been linked to the development of oral cancer. HPV is a commonly spread virus among young people, most of whom are either vaccinated against the virus or have immune systems capable of independently defending the body from its effects, but in some people, the virus lays dormant for extended periods of time (decades in some cases) and may lead to the development of oral cancer later in life.

How Volunteers in Medicine Can Help: At VIM, we offer a range of free dental services to our patients, providing quality dental care to a large population of Luzerne County residents who may otherwise go unserved or underserved. We also offer programming for smoking cessation, referral for resources to help with alcohol abuse, and a variety of other preventative healthcare measures. With contributions from our generous supporters, our Luzerne County community can march forward in the fight against cancer.

How Can You Check Yourself and Your Family Members for Oral Cancer?

Check Your Mouth! All you need is a mirror, a piece of gauze, and a light source! Watch the video below for a step-by-step tutorial on how to do a self-exam for oral cancer! Watch the video here!

We Need YOU To Help Fight Oral Cancer!

Your donation will make an important impact on oral cancer prevention and treatment in Luzerne County. The dental clinic at Volunteers in Medicine serves underprivileged populations that are at greater risk for developing significant oral diseases. Your donation helps the staff and volunteers provide quality comprehensive healthcare care in Luzerne County. Click here to go to our website and then go to the donate button.

@VolunteersInMedicineWB

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Volunteers in Medicine  Volunteers in Medicine 190 North Pennsylvania Avenue Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702 570-970-2864 phone kranieli@vimwb.org email www.vimwb.org