A new study shows a strong link between gum disease and head and neck cancer. The research from NYU Langone Health suggests that bacteria from gum disease can raise cancer risk by up to 50%. This study helps us understand the connection between oral health and cancer. Highlighting the need for good dental care.
Bacteria and Head and Neck Cancer
The mouth has hundreds of types of bacteria. The study found that 13 types of bacteria are linked to a higher risk of head and neck cancer. Some of these bacteria also cause gum disease. Which can damage the jawbone and gums. People with these bacteria had a 30% higher chance of getting cancer. When combined with five types often seen in gum disease with the risk went up to 50%.
This discovery is important because poor oral health has long been connected to head and neck cancers. This study is the most detailed one so far and focuses on the specific bacteria involved.
Research from NYU Langone Health
The study, led by Dr. Soyoung Kwak, looked at the genetic material of bacteria in the mouths of healthy people. It used data from three large studies involving 159,840 Americans. Participants gave saliva samples. Which were tested for bacterial DNA over 10 to 15 years. Researchers compared samples from 237 cancer patients to those from 457 people without cancer.
The study found no link between mouth fungi and cancer risk but confirmed that certain bacteria are connected to cancer. These bacteria might help doctors identify people at higher risk of head and neck cancer.
Oral Health and Cancer Prevention
The study emphasizes the importance of good dental care. Dr. Richard B. Hayes, a co-senior author, said “brushing and flossing may not only prevent gum disease but also lower cancer risk”. This shows how oral hygiene can affect overall health, not just cavities or gum disease.
Even though head and neck cancers are rare. The link to gum disease should not be ignored. Dr. Jiyoung Ahn, another co-senior author, said “more research is needed to understand how these bacteria lead to cancer”.
Future Research
This study showed a link between oral bacteria and cancer. But it did not prove that bacteria directly cause cancer. Future studies will focus on how these bacteria may lead to cancer. Learning more about this could help doctors create new ways to lower cancer risks.
This research is a big step in understanding the link between gum disease and cancer. As research continues, scientists hope to find new ways to prevent and treat these cancers.
Conclusion
The connection between gum disease and head and neck cancer shows how important oral health is for overall well-being. As scientists learn more about the bacteria in our mouths. This research reminds us that good dental hygiene can help prevent not just cavities but also cancer.
