For the 8^th consecutive year, MCS is proudly providing PR support to Oral Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week (OHANCAW) on behalf of our client Head and Neck Cancer Alliance (HNCA), a national nonprofit group dedicated to the prevention, early detection and research of head and neck cancers.  The HNCA is sponsoring the 13^th annual OHANCAW nationwide April 12-18, 2010.

In addition to its primary mission of promoting awareness of head and neck cancer and providing free cancer screenings and other activities the HNCA is this year endeavoring to educate the public on a newly emerging risk factor associated with these cancers.  Citing the now well-established link between oral human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and cancers of the tongue, throat and tonsils, the HNCA has expanded its list of at-risk populations for these cancers to include sexually active adults who engage in common sexual behaviors, such as open-mouth kissing and oral sex. Tobacco and alcohol use continue to be major risk factors for cancers of the oral cavity, head and neck.

More than 140 sites nationwide will offer free oral, head and neck cancer screenings to the public during OHANCAW 2010.  More information about head and neck cancer, OHANCAW, the free screenings and other activities can be found at www.OHANCAW.com.