Cancer is one of the most feared diseases by all of mankind. The painful and devastating effects of cancer cause incredible pain, and in many cases, can lead to death. Now, scientists have found a link between gum disease and the oral cancer virus. According to recent reports, British health scientists have found that gum disease increases one’s chances of developing neck and head cancer. The cancer can develop as a result of human papilloma virus or HPV. People with gum disease are especially vulnerable and are at an increased risk for oral cancer. This is due to the fact that gum disease is caused by bad bacteria. When these bacteria build up, there is a greater potential to develop ulcers.
Seeing a dentist regularly is necessary to maintain good dental health, but doctors say it may now be a way of saving your life. Those who have gum disease may not be aware of the fact that they have cancer, because they may not experience symptoms upon the disease’s onset. A London-based research study, which spanned over 21 years, found that people with gum disease are 33 percent more likely to develop lung cancer, according to Dr. Oz. Those with gum disease are four times more likely to develop neck and head cancer.
These statistics are frightening news for those who struggle daily to maintain good dental health through brushing and proper dental hygiene. Research regarding the link between gum disease and cancer is still ongoing, but scientists are certain that there is a link between the two. This research focuses very much on oral biofilm and the strength and capacity of the immune system.
Neck and head cancer are closely linked to bone loss around the teeth. Bone loss can also lead to osteoporosis in women. Osteoporosis is also linked to bone cancer, which can shorten life and cause significant pain. This pain is compounded by the pain that’s typically caused by osteoporosis.
Stroke, diabetes and heart disease have long been linked to gum disease. And cancer is the most recent disease to join the bandwagon. Research in 2008 cited the link between gum disease and cancer, but noted that men must be especially careful. The Lancet Oncology found that men with a history of gum disease are at a 14 percent higher risk of developing cancer than men without a family history. Men with periodontal disease should also watch out for a few other things: blood, kidney and pancreatic cancer.
Women are at a slightly lower risk of developing head and neck cancer. Roughly 10 percent of men with gum disease and nearly four percent of women with gum disease will develop cancer at some point in their lives, according to Bloomberg.com. Those with bone loss of the mouth need to pay special attention to their dental health, as this can be a sign of the HPV virus, which is a culprit of both neck and head cancer.
Best regards,
Dr. Melnick
