Maintaining good oral hygiene is not just about having clean teeth—it’s essential for your overall health and well-being. Recent research suggests that poor oral hygiene might increase the risk of pancreatic cancer, a serious and often late-detected disease. But how are these two related? We got in touch with Dr Pradeep Kumar Jain, Principal Director and HOD LAP GI, GI Onco, Bariatric and MIS Surgery, Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh who shares the possible connection between oral hygiene and pancreatic cancer.

“Our mouths are full of bacteria—some beneficial, some harmful. Poor oral hygiene allows harmful bacteria to flourish, leading to gum diseases like gingivitis or periodontitis. These conditions cause inflammation, which can spread from the mouth to other parts of the body through the bloodstream. Chronic inflammation is known to weaken the immune system and create an environment where cancer cells may grow more easily, including in the pancreas,” he said.

Studies show that specific bacteria linked to gum disease, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum, might travel to other areas of the body, including the pancreas. These bacteria may contribute to inflammation and cellular changes, potentially increasing the risk of pancreatic cancer.

As per Dr Jain, while oral health is an emerging area of study in cancer risk, it’s important to remember that other factors play a significant role in pancreatic cancer. These include smoking, obesity, diabetes, a family history of pancreatic cancer, and chronic pancreatitis (long-term inflammation of the pancreas). Poor oral hygiene might act as an additional risk factor alongside these established causes.

Why Is Pancreatic Cancer Detected Late?

Dr Jain explains that pancreatic cancer is often detected late because its symptoms can be vague or mistaken for other conditions. Be alert to signs like persistent pain in the upper abdomen or back, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, and new-onset diabetes, especially if it occurs with other symptoms. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.

“The good news is that maintaining good oral hygiene can lower your risk of several health problems, including potentially pancreatic cancer,” he said.

How To Reduce Risk Of Pancreatic Cancer Through Oral Hygiene?

Dr Jain shares some simple steps to protect your health:

Brush and Floss Regularly: Clean your teeth twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and prevent gum disease.

Visit the Dentist: Routine dental check-ups and cleanings can catch issues early and keep your gums healthy.

Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: Avoid smoking, maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and manage health conditions like diabetes to reduce overall cancer risk.

Act Quickly: If you have gum disease or other oral health concerns, address them promptly with your dentist or healthcare provider.

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