Gum Disease May Increase Cancer Risk in Women

By Chie Li Ee, DMD & Chrissy Boothroyd
A recent study has found a link between periodontal (gum) disease and a 14 percent increase in cancer among older women, and a 12 percent increase in women that have never smoked. The study followed more than 65,000 post-menopausal women enrolled in the ongoing Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study.
Older women with periodontal disease are three times more likely to develop esophageal cancer than those with healthy gums. Periodontal disease is also linked to a significant increase in melanoma, gallbladder, breast, lung and stomach cancers. Periodontal pathogens have been found in pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions. Researchers believe that the bacteria may spread through inhalation or saliva, as well as bacteria entering the blood stream through oral tissues.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 47 percent of adults 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease. From age 65 and older, 70 percent of adults have moderate to severe periodontal disease. Researchers speculate that gum disease could serve as a sign for an individual’s overall health. The worse the case of gum disease, the more likely the person is to develop other serious medical conditions. There is also a link between diabetes and gum disease, and heart disease and gum disease. Although studies haven’t proven that oral diseases actually cause these chronic conditions, it is hard to ignore these connections. We have long known that periodontal disease leads to tooth loss, but this may have long term implications in maintaining good oral health for overall well-being. The good news is that periodontal disease is both preventable and manageable. So the next time you think about cancelling your dental appointment or are too tired to floss, think about how you could be affecting your body.
Stay on schedule with regular dental visits and homecare and you will enjoy your golden years with a healthy smile. Cape May Dental Associates is welcoming new patients and is focused on prevention and early detection of oral conditions. Please call (609) 884-5335, follow us on Facebook or email Dr. Ee at contact@capemaydental.com. For more information, visit www.capemaydental.com.