Chronic Periodontal Inflammation Linked to Increased Breast Cancer Risk: Study
A new study published in BMC Oral Health highlights a noteworthy connection between chronic periodontal inflammation and the risk of developing breast cancer. The researchers found that women with periodontitis, a persistent gum infection that damages soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth, are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer compared to those with healthy gums. This discovery adds to growing evidence that oral health plays a broader role in systemic diseases beyond the mouth. Periodontitis triggers a long-term inflammatory response that releases bacteria and inflammatory mediators into the bloodstream, potentially influencing cancer development in distant organs such as the breast.
The study analyzed clinical and demographic data from a large group of women, adjusting for known breast cancer risk factors such as age, smoking, and body mass index. Results showed a statistically significant association between moderate to severe periodontitis and higher breast cancer prevalence. Researchers suggest that chronic inflammation, a shared underlying mechanism between periodontal disease and many cancers, may be a key biological link. When gum disease remains untreated, inflammatory molecules like cytokines can circulate through the body, creating a microenvironment that favors tumor initiation or growth. While the study does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship, it underlines the importance of maintaining oral health as part of cancer prevention strategies.
Experts emphasize that regular dental checkups, early treatment of gum inflammation, and proper oral hygiene could help reduce the burden of systemic inflammation and, potentially, the risk of related diseases. They also recommend further longitudinal studies to clarify the biological pathways connecting oral bacteria, immune response, and cancer risk. For now, the findings serve as a reminder that oral health is deeply connected to overall wellbeing, and that neglecting gum health may have consequences extending far beyond tooth loss.
Keywords: periodontitis, breast cancer, inflammation, oral health, chronic disease, BMC Oral Health, systemic inflammation
