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A groundbreaking study led by researchers at NYU Langone Health and its Perlmutter Cancer Center has revealed that certain bacteria associated with gum disease may significantly increase the risk of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The study, published in JAMA Oncology, highlights the role of 13 specific bacterial species in contributing to a 50% increased risk of developing these cancers.
The research builds on long-standing observations that individuals with poor oral health are more vulnerable to cancers of the mouth and throat. While smaller studies had previously suggested that the oral microbiome—home to hundreds of bacterial species—may influence cancer risk, the new study is the largest and most detailed to date, offering critical insights into which bacteria are most involved.
According to Dr. Soyoung Kwak, the study’s lead author and a postdoctoral fellow at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, “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.”
Bacterial Link to Cancer
The researchers analyzed oral microbial DNA from saliva samples of healthy individuals collected as part of three large ongoing cancer prevention studies. The participants, who numbered 159,840 in total, were followed for 10 to 15 years, during which time 236 were diagnosed with HNSCC. By comparing the microbiomes of these cancer patients with those of 458 cancer-free participants, the team identified a group of 13 bacterial species that were linked to a 30% higher likelihood of developing head and neck cancers. When these species were considered alongside five other bacteria associated with periodontal disease, the risk increased to 50%.
Dr. Richard Hayes, a co-senior author and professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, emphasized the importance of good oral hygiene in reducing cancer risk. “Brushing your teeth and flossing may not only help prevent periodontal disease, but also may protect against head and neck cancer,” he said.
Uncovering the Role of the Oral Microbiome
The study sheds light on a potential indirect pathway through which bacteria in the mouth may influence cancer risk. Periodontal disease, which is caused by bacteria that attack the tissues around the teeth and can lead to serious gum infections, has long been linked to HNSCC. By identifying specific bacterial species involved, the researchers hope to develop new methods to detect those at higher risk for these cancers.
Dr. Jiyoung Ahn, a co-senior author of the study and associate director for population research at NYU’s Perlmutter Cancer Center, noted that this research marks an important step in understanding the mechanisms behind the disease. “Now that we have identified key bacteria that may contribute to this disease, we next plan to explore the mechanisms that allow them to do so and in what ways we can best intervene,” said Ahn.
While bacteria were strongly linked to increased cancer risk, the study found no role for fungi, such as yeast and mold, in the development of HNSCC.
Future Directions
The researchers caution that their findings establish a correlation, not a direct cause-and-effect relationship, between the bacteria and cancer. Further studies are needed to investigate how these microbes might trigger the disease. Nevertheless, the research points to a promising new avenue for cancer prevention through oral health interventions and early microbial detection.
Though head and neck cancers remain relatively uncommon, this study highlights the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene practices not just for dental health, but potentially for cancer prevention as well.
The study received funding from the National Institutes of Health.
Key Takeaways:
- Certain bacteria linked to gum disease are associated with a 50% increased risk of head and neck cancers.
- The study identified 13 specific bacterial species that may serve as biomarkers for these cancers.
- Good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing, may reduce cancer risk.
- Further research is needed to determine the exact mechanisms by which these bacteria influence cancer development.
This landmark study emphasizes the importance of oral health and offers a potential new pathway for early detection and prevention of head and neck cancers.
