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Gum Disease Bacteria Could Be Fueling Cancer Risk

A recent study has found a link between bacteria associated with gum disease and an increased risk of head and neck cancers. Researchers discovered that more than a dozen bacterial species could collectively elevate the risk of these cancers by 50%. The findings underscore the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene, as brushing and flossing may help prevent both periodontal disease and potentially reduce the risk of cancer.

Co-senior author Dr. Richard Hayes, a professor at NYU School of Medicine, highlighted that proper oral care habits are essential for overall health. The study emphasizes that some oral bacteria can lead to severe gum infections, which may damage the jawbone and surrounding tissues. This connection reinforces the idea that oral health is closely tied to overall health.

The research involved analyzing data from three extensive studies that tracked nearly 160,000 Americans and their cancer risk factors. Participants provided saliva samples, enabling researchers to identify the types and quantities of bacteria present in their mouths. Over a tracking period of 10 to 15 years, 236 individuals were diagnosed with head and neck cancer.

In comparing the oral microbiomes of cancer patients with those of a control group, researchers identified 13 bacterial species linked to either an increased or decreased cancer risk. The overall risk for head and neck cancer increased by 30% due to the presence of these bacteria, and when combined with five additional bacteria typically associated with gum disease, the risk rose to 50%.

Published in the journal JAMA Oncology, this study offers new insights into how the oral microbiome may influence cancer risk. Lead researcher Soyoung Kwak noted that these bacterial markers could potentially help identify individuals who are at high risk for developing head and neck cancers. Importantly, the study found no evidence suggesting that naturally occurring fungi in the mouth contribute to cancer risk, focusing solely on the bacterial component.