Raising Awareness for Head and Neck Cancer in April
Recognizing Excellence During Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month
April is Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, and the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS) highlights its Diplomates who serve as experts in head and neck cancer. Throughout the month of April, ABOMS shares stories and testimonies to educate the public of who’s behind the mask when treating these life-changing diseases.
What the public may not know?
The percentage of oral and maxillofacial surgeons specializing in head and neck cancer is small but meaningful. Surgeons board-certified by ABOMS who have also obtained a CAQ in Head and Neck Oncologic and Reconstructive Surgery are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of excellence, are up to date on the most recent research, and frequently engage with colleagues faced with the same surgical challenges.
ABOMS proudly recognizes its 46 Diplomates with a CAQ in Head and Neck Oncologic and Reconstructive Surgery. Despite a small percentage, the Board values the work of its Diplomates and creates benchmarks to show their qualifications in the subspecialty.
Testimonies from the Experts
The ABOMS Board of Directors are talented in different segments of practice. During the month of April, ABOMS Vice President, Deepak Kademani, DMD, MD, FACS, brings awareness to head and neck cancer. Dr. Kademani discusses the statistics and complexities of head and neck cancer and underscores the importance of timely intervention during an interview with KSTP.
“About 50% of cancers now are diagnosed with advanced stage, and unfortunately that number has not changed in the last 30 years […]. If we can diagnose them much earlier, it makes the treatment much better and patients in general do significantly better.”
Most recently, ABOMS spoke with board-certified surgeon, Anastasiya Quimby, DDS, MD, who provided valuable insights into the educational aspects of head and neck cancer. Dr. Quimby emphasized the importance of recognizing potential early symptoms and the critical role of early detection through specialized examinations, stating, “A thorough exam with a specialist in Head and Neck Oncology can be a lifesaving thing.”
Why should Surgeons seek additional Certificates of Added Qualification?
It is no surprise that oral and maxillofacial surgeons are busy with demanding responsibilities; however, ABOMS board-certified surgeons are committed to providing the highest level of care. Furthermore, the surgeons who pursue CAQs in a focused area of surgery have taken an additional step to safeguard the public and their patients.
Board-certified and CAQ certified surgeon, Ignacio Velasco-Martinez, DDS, FACS talks about the value of his certification.
“The CAQ has also significantly enhanced my credibility among referring colleagues and within the multidisciplinary teams I collaborate with. It has opened doors to opportunities for leadership roles, especially in prevention and community outreach, and the ability to contribute to the education of dental students and residents.”
We commend these individuals for their dedication and expertise. During this awareness month, ABOMS stands with the patients, families, and healthcare providers who face head and neck cancer every day—and celebrates the specialists who are making a difference through their commitment and care.