A groundbreaking study has revealed a potential connection between bacteria in the mouth and an increased risk of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), a type of cancer that affects the oral cavity, nose, throat, and larynx. Conducted by researchers at New York University (NYU), the study, published in JAMA Oncology, identifies 13 bacterial species that could raise the risk of developing these cancers by as much as 30%. The findings underline the importance of maintaining proper oral hygiene as a preventive measure.
Head and Neck Cancer: The Alarming Statistics
HNSCC is one of the most prevalent cancers in Europe, with more than 150,000 new cases annually. This type of cancer predominantly affects men and has a high mortality rate, with over half of diagnosed individuals succumbing to the disease within five years. While lifestyle factors like tobacco and alcohol consumption, along with infections such as HPV, are known contributors to these cancers, this new study highlights a possible microbial component in cancer risk.
Oral Bacteria: A New Risk Factor
The NYU research team compared 236 HNSCC patients with 458 healthy individuals, and the results showed that 13 bacterial species were significantly more prevalent among the cancer patients. Even after accounting for known risk factors like smoking and alcohol use, the presence of these bacteria was still associated with a higher likelihood of developing head and neck cancers. According to Dr. Soyoung Kwak, the study's lead author, these bacteria could act as "biomarkers" to identify individuals at higher risk.
Oral Hygiene and Cancer Prevention
While the study does not definitively prove that bacteria cause cancer, it strengthens the argument that good oral hygiene could be crucial in reducing cancer risk. Dr. Richard Hayes, co-author of the study, emphasized that regular brushing and flossing may help prevent not just periodontal disease, but also serious conditions like HNSCC. Researchers are now focusing on how these bacteria contribute to cancer formation and how interventions might reduce the associated risks.
The Role of Tobacco, Alcohol, and HPV
In addition to bacterial factors, the study confirmed the well-established roles of tobacco, alcohol, and HPV in increasing cancer risk. Claire Knight from Cancer Research UK pointed out that reducing alcohol consumption and quitting smoking are still among the most effective measures individuals can take to lower their cancer risk.
Source: Euronews
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