Is there a correlation between oral infections or oral health problems and the development of cancer elsewhere in the body?

From the Guidelines

There is a correlation between oral infections or poor oral health and an increased risk of certain cancers elsewhere in the body, as supported by research indicating that chronic inflammation from periodontal disease may contribute to cancer development through systemic inflammation pathways 1.

Key Findings

• Studies have found associations between periodontal disease and cancers of the digestive system (including pancreatic, colorectal, and gastric cancers), lung cancer, and certain blood cancers 1.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections in the mouth have been linked to oropharyngeal cancers and possibly cancers at distant sites 1.
• Maintaining good oral hygiene through regular brushing, flossing, dental check-ups, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol can help reduce both oral health problems and potentially associated cancer risks 2.

Risk Factors

• Tobacco and alcohol use are major risk factors for oral cancer, with up to 75% of cases in the United States attributable to these factors 2.
• Additional risk factors include male sex, older age, use of betel quid, ultraviolet light exposure, infection with Candida or bacterial flora, and a compromised immune system 2.
• Sexually transmitted oral HPV infection (HPV-16) is a significant risk factor for oropharyngeal cancer, with a prevalence of 80% to 95% in the United States 2.

Screening and Prevention

• The primary screening test for oral cancer is a systematic clinical examination of the oral cavity, including visual inspection and palpation of the face, neck, lips, labial mucosa, buccal mucosa, gingiva, floor of the mouth, tongue, and palate 1.
• Early detection and treatment of oral infections may play a role in reducing the risks of associated cancers 1. Therefore, prioritizing good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups is crucial in reducing the risks of oral health problems and potentially associated cancers, with a focus on preventing tobacco and alcohol use, and screening for oral HPV infection 2.

From the Research

Correlation between Oral Infections and Cancer Development

• There is evidence suggesting a link between oral health problems and the development of cancer elsewhere in the body 3.
• A study found that 28 systemic noncommunicable diseases, including five types of cancer, were strongly associated with oral diseases 3.
• Another study found that oral health is directly associated with different disease conditions, including six systemic diseases, and contributes largely to an individual's general health 4.
• The relationship between oral and systemic health is bidirectional, with oral diseases potentially affecting systemic health and vice versa 5, 6, 7.

Oral Health and Systemic Diseases

• Periodontal disease has been linked to various systemic diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and adverse pregnancy outcomes 5, 6.
• Dentists are aware of the connection between oral health and systemic health, with 93% agreeing that oral health is associated with systemic health 6.
• The awareness of the oral-systemic link among dentists can improve patients' access to oral care and overall health 6.

Evidence and Associations

• The evidence supporting the association between oral health and systemic health is extensive, but the strength and validity of the evidence vary 3.
• Some studies have found statistically significant relationships between oral health and physical, mental, and general health, as well as systemic disease conditions 4.
• The relationships between oral and systemic health are complex and require further research to fully understand the associations and potential causality 5, 7.