Led By NYU College of Dentistry Students and Oral Cancer Survivors, Hundreds Sign Up to Raise Awareness
Led By NYU College of Dentistry Students and Oral Cancer Survivors, Hundreds Sign Up to Raise Awareness
The New York University Chapter of the Student National Dental Association (SNDA) will lead New York City’s second annual Oral Cancer Walk to raise awareness of a disease that kills over 7,000 American men and women each year.
Last spring’s first-ever Oral Cancer walk was a success: it attracted some 300 participants and raised over $20,000. This year, the goal is to double both the number of walkers and the funds raised. Also, a percentage of this year’s proceeds will be given back to the community to be used for oral cancer awareness. The walk is taking place in Harlem to call attention to the fact that oral cancer disproportionately affects African-American men, who have the highest rates of oral cancer in the United States. Major risk factors are tobacco and heavy alcohol use. If detected in its earliest stages, however, oral cancer is easily treated. The key is early detection and prevention. “We want consumers to know that they should ask for an oral cancer exam every time they visit their dentist,” says Jocelyn Jeffries, a senior at the NYU College of Dentistry.
* Free oral cancer screenings will be available at the start/finish of the walk. *
- WHEN: Saturday, April 14, 2007, 11AM - rain or shine
- WHERE: Registration and oral cancer screenings begin at 9AM at Marcus Garvey Park, 121st Street and Madison Avenue, Harlem
Walk begins at 11AM. Participants will receive a map of the walk route (approximately four miles) when they register. (There will also be a run option, for those who are motivated.) Additional health screenings (blood pressure, tobacco cessation, etc.), begin at 12 NOON.
The first 500 registered walkers will receive free T-shirts and bandanas with the Oral Cancer Walk logo. All walkers must have at least one sponsor. Each walker must collect a minimum of $20 in sponsorship. There will be great prizes for the three walkers who raise the most money. Walker donation forms and more information are available at www.oral-cancer.org. Questions can be e-mailed to nyc.oralcancerwalkathon@yahoo.com.
In addition to the SNDA, sponsoring groups include The Oral Cancer Foundation, the Oral Cancer Consortium of New York and New Jersey, NYU College of Dentistry, ABC 7, the Yul Brynner Head and Neck Cancer Foundation, SPOHNC, WebMD, and CulinArt. Additional sponsors to be announced.