Even those who live a healthy lifestyle can be at risk for an aggressive form of cancer.
“I never smoked at all, but being around second hand smoke, I was still high risk,” said Pam Pino.
Pino decided to get screened for oral cancer by her dentist. This cancer is dangerous because it’s difficult to detect.
“By the time we actually see something suspicious, 70 percent of those cancers are in advanced stages,” said dentist Dr. Vincent Vella.
Improvements in the screening process are cutting into those numbers. With the visalight solution and a florescent light, Dr. Vella says a traditional visual exam becomes more effective.
Even those who live a healthy lifestyle can be at risk for an aggressive form of cancer. Casey Bortnick tells us about a new cancer screening.
“If there’s anything suspicious, we’ll have them come back in a couple of weeks and then do an actual dye test to see if that legion has changed in any way,” Dr. Vella said.
Janine Cropo is a former smoker. She returned for a follow up exam. As a precaution, Cropo will have a biopsy.
“That was my original reaction was afraid to do it. The only person I would be hurting is myself,” Cropo said.
The exam takes about five minutes. Both Cropo and Pino said it’s painless.
“Gargling with vinegar. That’s what it feels like, but it’s not bad,” said Pino.
The test costs $65. Right now, it’s not covered by insurance, but Pino says it’s worth it.
“They say what you don’t know won’t hurt you, but ignorance isn’t going to save your life,” Pino said.