Poor Oral Hygiene Linked to Increased Risk of Colon Cancer, Harvard Study Finds

A study conducted by Harvard University and the University of Seattle, published in the prestigious journal Nature, finds that poor oral hygiene could increase your risk of cancer.

According to the researchers, bacteria from the Fusobacterium family- commonly found in the mouth- were discovered in the bodies of patients with colon cancer. Their conclusion: poor oral hygiene allows these harmful bacteria to multiply and "leak" into the digestive system, where they are typically not found in healthy individuals.

The study also references additional research from the American Association for Cancer Research, which has linked gum disease to the development of cancer cells in general, and colon cancer in particular.

Once these bacteria migrate from the mouth to the intestines, they develop resistance to the natural acidity of the gut. As a result, entire colonies of these harmful microbes can form, disrupting the body’s balance and potentially leading to the development of cancerous cells.

The researchers emphasize that while poor oral hygiene is a major factor, it’s not the only one. Other contributors to the growth and spread of cancer-causing bacteria like Fusobacterium include:

• Smoking

• Diabetes

• Obesity

Maintaining oral hygiene isn’t only about fresh breath and a bright smile, but could be a critical line of defense against serious diseases like colon cancer.

If it’s been a while since your last dental check-up, book an appointment with your dentist or dental hygienist.