Most individuals understand the significance of maintaining good oral hygiene, with the NHS recommending that we brush our teeth at least twice daily to prevent problems such as tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease. However, a recent study has revealed that proper dental care may also significantly reduce the risk of a deadly illness, potentially cutting it by up to 50%.
Research conducted by US scientists has identified a link between certain species of bacteria found in the mouth and a 50% increased risk of developing head and neck cancer. These bacteria are also associated with periodontal disease, a severe gum infection that can damage the jawbone and surrounding soft tissues. While previous studies have suggested a correlation between oral bacteria and these types of cancers, the specific types of germs involved have remained largely unidentified until now.
Soyoung Kwak, one of the study’s authors, stated, “Our findings offer new insight into the relationship between the oral microbiome and head and neck cancers. These bacteria may serve as biomarkers for experts to flag those at high risk.”
The study, published in JAMA Oncology, analyzed data from three ongoing research projects that tracked 159,840 Americans, examining how factors like diet, lifestyle, and medical history impact cancer risk. Participants were instructed to rinse with mouthwash and provide saliva samples for analysis.
Researchers utilized these samples to identify the DNA of bacterial and fungal species present in the mouth, allowing them to quantify the types and numbers of microbes. Over a follow-up period of 10 to 15 years, the team reached out to participants to document any tumor developments. During this time, 236 individuals were diagnosed with head and neck cancer.
The study identified 13 bacterial species in the mouth, including Prevotella salivae, Streptococcus sanguinis, and Leptotrichia, all of which were linked to an elevated risk of head and neck cancer. Richard Hayes, a co-author of the study and professor at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine, emphasized the importance of regular oral hygiene.
“Our results offer yet another reason to maintain good oral hygiene habits,” he noted. “Brushing and flossing not only help prevent periodontal disease but may also provide protection against head and neck cancer.”
To ensure effective tooth brushing, the NHS recommends cleaning all surfaces of each tooth, which should take approximately two minutes. They advise focusing on the inside, outside, and chewing surfaces of the teeth. It is also important not to rinse the mouth immediately after brushing, as this can wash away the concentrated fluoride in the remaining toothpaste.
According to Cancer Research UK, head and neck cancer is the eighth most common type of cancer in the UK, with around 12,800 new cases reported annually and approximately 4,100 deaths each year.
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