Mouth Bacteria Linked to Pancreatic Cancer

Studies link a history of poor oral health and gum disease to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. Changes in mouth bacteria can increase the risk of this cancer.

Key takeaways:

• People with specific strains of mouth bacteria may be at increased risk of pancreatic cancer.
• The research on mouth bacteria could lead to earlier diagnosis and more precise treatment.
• Other risk factors for pancreatic cancer include older age, African-American race, smoking and a family history of the disease.

“Specifically, they found presence of Porphyromonas gingivalis was linked to a 59% overall higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Similarly, presence of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans was linked to a 50% overall higher risk. Both types of bacteria are known to be associated with gum disease or periodontitis.”

Read the full story here:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/309303.php