NEW YORK, US: A recent study has established a potential link between oral bacteria and an elevated risk of developing head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Conducted by researchers at NYU Langone Health, this study is the largest and most detailed analysis to date on the correlation between the oral microbiome and cancer risk. The findings suggest that certain bacteria in the mouth may significantly increase the likelihood of developing HNSCC, with some species associated with a risk that is twice as high.
The study analyzed data from three ongoing investigations, encompassing 159,840 healthy participants. These investigations aim to explore how factors like diet, lifestyle, and medical history contribute to cancer risk. Shortly after enrolling, participants provided saliva samples, and the research team tracked them for approximately 10 to 15 years. This allowed the researchers to examine the genetic composition of oral microbes and monitor the development of cancer over time. In total, 236 participants were diagnosed with HNSCC, and their oral microbiome DNA was compared with that of 458 cancer-free participants.
The researchers identified 13 oral bacterial species that were associated with an increased risk of HNSCC. Notably, Prevotella salivae, Streptococcus sanguinis, and Leptotrichia species were found to have a novel association with the disease. Additionally, several species belonging to the Betaproteobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria classes were linked to a 30% higher likelihood of developing HNSCC. When these bacteria were combined with five species commonly found in periodontal disease, the overall risk increased to 50%.
“Our findings offer new insight into the relationship between the oral microbiome and head and neck cancers,” said lead author Dr. Soyoung Kwak, a postdoctoral fellow at NYU Grossman School of Medicine’s Department of Population Health.
“These bacteria may serve as biomarkers to identify individuals at high risk,” she added.
Dr. Richard B. Hayes, co-author and professor at the same department, emphasized the importance of oral hygiene. “Our results provide another reason to maintain good oral hygiene habits,” he stated. “Brushing and flossing not only help prevent periodontal disease but may also protect against head and neck cancer.”
Following these findings, the research team plans to delve deeper into the mechanisms by which these bacteria may contribute to HNSCC. They aim to identify effective strategies for intervention and prevention.
The study, titled “Oral Microbiome and Subsequent Risk of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Cancer,” was published online on 26 September 2024, in JAMA Oncology.
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