CLEVELAND (WJW) – FOX 8’s Wayne Dawson is opening up about his recent health scare and a surprising diagnosis of oral cancer, sharing essential insights on what to look out for.
On Thursday, June 13, Wayne appeared on FOX 8 News in the Morning joined by two Cleveland Clinic doctors he calls his heroes.
The Heroes Behind Wayne’s Recovery
In April, Dr. Brandon Prendes and Dr. Danielle Bottalico performed a critical nine-hour surgery to remove a cancerous mass from Wayne’s mouth. They explained that while oral cancer is rare, common causes include smoking and alcohol use; however, some people are more prone to the disease. Notably, Wayne neither smokes nor drinks.
Recognizing and Preventing Oral Cancer
Dr. Prendes advised: Avoidance of tobacco products is probably the best way, keeping your mouth in good condition, so seeing a dentist regularly.
This point underscores the importance of dental visits for maintaining oral health.
The Consequences of Delay
Previously, Wayne admitted he didn’t heed his dentist’s advice to have his mouth checked out by a doctor sooner. Instead, he delayed another six months before seeking help.
The Benefits of Early Detection
If you have something concerning in your mouth or your throat that is not going away and is persisting for longer than a couple of weeks, just get it checked out. It’s always better to be safe than sorry
, said Dr. Bottalico.
Wayne Dawson now champions early detection for all cancers.
Nurses at Cleveland Clinic Show Dedication
The commitment of Cleveland Clinic medical staff extends beyond cancer care. Recently, local nurses cared for seven sets of twins simultaneously.
This dedication from healthcare providers mirrors the personalized approach taken by oncologists in managing each patient’s treatment plan.
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