Bacteria that cause gum disease can also increase a person’s risk of head and neck squamous cell cancer, according to a US study published in the journal JAMA Oncology. Researchers analysed data from three ongoing studies that tracked 1,59,840 adults to see how diet, lifestyle, medical history and other factors affect cancer risk.
They collected saliva samples from the participants to examine the number and types of bacteria in their mouths and followed them for 10 to 15 years. The study found that 236 patients, mean age 60.9, and 24.6 per cent women, were diagnosed with head and neck cancer during follow up. The DNA of their oral microbes were then compared with that of 485 participants who remained cancer free.
As many as 13 bacterial species were shown to affect cancer risk. Overall, this group was linked to a 30 per cent greater likelihood of developing cancer. When combined with five other species often seen in gum disease, the overall risk for head and neck cancer increased by 50 per cent.
“Our results offer yet another reason to keep up good oral hygiene habits,”the study said. “Brushing your teeth and flossing may not only help prevent periodontal disease, but also may protect against head and neck cancer.”
