Hyderabad: People with lack of teeth in the jaw line due to advanced age or bad teeth health are at an 80 per cent risk of developing colon cancer, says to a recent study.
Bad oral health leads to high risk of developing oral cancers and those of the lung, colon and pancreas, where the bacteria accumulate in the oral cavity leading to the growth of cancers cells in the organs.
Senior dentist Dr Sushil Kumar said, “Advanced gum diseases called periodontitis is caused by bacterial infection that damages the soft tissues and bone that support the teeth. If this is not attended to by patients the inflammation spreads in the gums and along the roots of the teeth. This is also found to destroy the ligaments and the supporting bone which leads to loss of other teeth and spread of the infection. For this reason, it is important to get the teeth examined in the annual overall health check-up so that any underlying conditions can be detected early.”
There are more than 700 different species of bacteria colonising a healthy mouth, most of which are completely harmless and live in harmony with their host.
However, in the absence of sufficient oral hygiene and tooth cleaning, bacterial deposits build up next to the gums, forming a plaque, and the conditions become suitable for more dangerous bacteria to flourish. These harmful bacteria along with lifestyle habits of smoking and drinking affect the colon and lungs.
Oncologist Dr Sai Ram said, “Multiple studies have been conducted at the clinical level some of which have shown a very strong association while others have not.
Cases differ depending on eating habits and hygiene factors. Cancers develop over a period of 10-15 years and hence there is a lot of scope for correction and following good prevention methods. Hygiene is a very important part of that.”
The continuous inflammation in the oral region is found to alter the gut bacteria causing immune disruption leading to colorectal cancer. Experts said that oral health impacts the overall health of a person and maintaining hygiene helps avoid accumulation of bad bacteria.
