Skipping good dental care may do more than harm your smile. A new study from NYU School of Medicine found that harmful bacteria and fungi in the mouth can travel through saliva to the pancreas, raising the risk of one of the deadliest cancers.
The study, published in JAMA Oncology, tracked 122,000 people over eight years. Researchers identified 27 types of bacteria and fungi linked to higher cancer risk, including P. gingivalis, E. nodatum, P. micra, and Candida. People with poor oral health were up to three times more likely to develop pancreatic cancer compared with those who practiced good dental care.
Scientists say these findings could help doctors identify high-risk patients and develop new prevention strategies. Since pancreatic cancer often goes unnoticed until it is advanced, prevention is key. Experts emphasize that brushing and flossing daily may not only protect gums but also lower cancer risk.
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