The physical effects of cancer are often much more visible or apparent in patients with head or neck cancer than in people with other types of the disease.

Facial deformities, speech impairments, or problems with eating and drinking can result in emotional and social difficulties that are unique to this group of patients. The University's Head and Neck Cancer program offers one of Minnesota's few support groups specifically intended for the patient with head or neck cancer.

Every month, 10 to 15 men and women meet to give each other emotional support and talk about the day-to-day challenges of living with such cancers. The group includes patients with active cancer, cancer survivors and some family members.

Currently, more than 200 people are on the support group mailing list. Many live out of state and attend meetings when they are in town for medical care.

The group meets the first Monday of every month from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hope Lodge, 2500 University Ave. S.E., Minneapolis. Contact Ann Fasching at 612-273-3215 for more information.