A recent study conducted by researchers at New York University has found a link between poor oral health and an increased risk of head and neck cancers. Published in JAMA Oncology, the study identified 13 bacteria species in the mouth that are associated with a 30% higher likelihood of developing Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC). These cancers, which affect the mouth, nose, and throat, are common in Europe with over 150,000 diagnosed cases annually.
The study compared 236 HNSCC patients to 458 individuals without the disease, finding that the presence of these bacteria was a significant risk factor even after adjusting for other known risk factors like tobacco and alcohol use. While the correlation between oral bacteria and cancer does not establish causation, researchers believe it is important to practice good oral hygiene to potentially reduce the risk of developing head and neck cancers.
Dr. Richard Hayes, a co-author of the study, emphasized the importance of regular brushing and flossing in addition to seeking further research to better understand how these bacteria contribute to cancer risks. Dr. Claire Knight from Cancer Research UK also highlighted the significance of reducing alcohol consumption and quitting smoking as key steps in lowering the risk of head and neck cancers. The researchers plan to continue investigating how oral bacteria play a role in cancer development and how these risks can be mitigated.
Source
Photo credit www.euronews.com
