NEW YORK, April 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Academy
Award-winning actor and producer Michael Douglas, who is recovering
from a battle with throat cancer, is urging Americans to get
screened for cancer during the 14th annual Oral, Head & Neck
Cancer Awareness Week (OHANCAW), being held nationwide May 8-14 .
More than 200 medical centers across the country and the world will
offer free oral, head and neck cancer screenings during OHANCAW,
which is sponsored by the Head and Neck Cancer Alliance (HNCA).
Information about the free screenings and local sites can be found
at www.OHANCAW.com.
According to the American Cancer Society, head and neck cancers
represent the sixth most common form of cancer in the U.S., with
more than 50,000 cases diagnosed annually and over 12,000
deaths.
Mr. Douglas, a screen legend who won Academy Awards as Best
Actor for his role in the movie Wall Street and as producer
of 1975’s Best Picture One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, was
diagnosed with advanced stage IV throat cancer in August, 2010.
Following several weeks of aggressive radiation and
chemotherapy, it was announced in January 2011 that the popular
movie and TV star had a “complete response” to treatment in that
his tumor is no longer detectable by physical examination or
medical imaging. Although he must have monthly check-ups because
there is a chance of tumor recurrence, Mr. Douglas is confident of
complete recovery.
“My experience has taught me the importance of early detection
and diagnosis to successful treatment and a positive outcome,” said
Mr. Douglas. “I applaud the Head and Neck Cancer Alliance for
raising awareness of oral, head and neck cancer and opening the
door to free cancer screenings at local facilities throughout our
country during OHANCAW. The screening is quick, painless and
free, so I am encouraging everyone to take advantage of this
opportunity that could save your l
‘/>”/>
SOURCE
