Recent research has looked into the connection between certain oral microbes and an increased chance of Pancreatic Cancer developing. Learning more about this connection is important and could assist in earlier detection of pancreatic cancer. While the link between these two areas is documented, the researchers sought to find out the specifics of this connection.
New research has confirmed a link between certain oral microbes and an increased risk of Pancreatic Cancer developing [1].
This concerning link places even more importance upon oral health. While experts have long believed that a link exists between these two areas, this research provides further insights into the connection.
The research will hopefully remind everyone of the importance of oral health and provide health professionals with more information about this connection.
Background
Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer which is found in the pancreas [2]. The pancreas is a very important organ which is responsible for aiding digestion and releasing hormones which regulate blood sugar levels.
Therefore, any damage to the pancreas can have a disastrous impact. Avoiding or lessening the chances of this cancer developing is important.
Scientists have long suspected a link between poor oral health and pancreatic cancer. For example, past research found that bacteria can travel through swallowed saliva into the pancreas [3].
Yet the exact species involved in this process remains unknown. Therefore, this is a subject area that researchers have been keen to explore further.
The Research
The research was carried out by a team from New York University Langone Health and its Perlmutter Cancer Center. Their findings were published in the JAMA Oncology journal [1].
The research involved analyzing the oral microbiome. This refers to the large and diverse community of bacteria and fungi that inhabit the mouth [1].
The research involved analyzing the genetic makeup of microbes collected from the saliva of 122,000 healthy men and women [1].
To begin with, the 122,000 participants rinsed their mouths with mouthwash. Then, they provided saliva samples which provided the numbers and species of microbes for testing [1].
At a follow-up – which was on average nine years – the researchers followed up to record any tumor presence [1].
445 patients were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in this time. A second group of 445 participants were selected, each of which did not have cancer [1]. Then, the saliva samples of the two groups were compared.
Mitigating factors, such as age, race, and tobacco usage, were accounted for when conducting the analysis [1].
The findings identified 24 species of bacteria and fungi that were linked to a heightened risk of pancreatic cancer. Additionally, 3 further types of bacteria identified were already known to contribute towards gum disease [1].
Therefore, in total, the researchers found that there were 27 species of bacteria and fungi which increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer [1].
Altogether, the researchers concluded the entire group of microbes could increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer by more than three times [1].
While some of the species came as no surprise to researchers, others did. For example, one kind of oral fungi – a type of yeast called Candida, naturally lives on the skin and throughout the body. Yet this was found to be among the 27 species [1].
Summary
The findings were very interesting and have provided researchers and scientists with further insights into the link between oral health and pancreatic cancer.
The researchers noted that scientists could use this research to develop a tool in the future that can estimate cancer risk based on a patient’s oral microbiome [1].
This would be an efficient and accurate way of identifying those at risk. Therefore, those in need of pancreatic cancer screening could be identified quickly, potentially saving crucial time.
By having knowledge of the 27 species, it can also help researchers to form strategies to identify where these species are coming from and how their impact can be limited.
The findings were summarized by lead author Yixuan Meng. Meng confirmed that “our findings provide new insight into the relationship between the oral microbiome and pancreatic cancer” [3].
In regard to the importance of oral health, co-author Richard Hayes said that “it is clearer than ever that brushing and flossing your teeth may not only help prevent periodontal disease but may also protect against cancer” [3].
Therefore, the importance of looking after our oral health is once again clear. As seen in this research, it can provide a range of benefits.
Thinking points…
[1] This research reinforces the importance of looking after our teeth. An important part of this is to attend regular dental check-ups. At a check-up, a dentist will be able to take a thorough look at your mouth, spot any problems, provide advice, and suggest treatment if needed. We recommend that you visit the dentist at least once every six months. Why not book an appointment now?
[2] The researchers noted that of the 27 harmful species identified, 3 were already associated with gum disease. Looking after your gums is important. If you are concerned about your gums, you should discuss this with your dentist. While gum disease can’t be stopped, its progression can be slowed through interventions like root planing and scaling.
What we offer at Taradale Dental
Taradale Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. At our Calgary dental clinic, we provide a range of services for our patients.
We advise our patients to attend our Calgary dental clinic at least twice per year for a regular dental check-up. At these check-ups, we provide a comprehensive review of a patient’s oral health. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For example, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To strengthen your oral health, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly.
Here at Taradale Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, teeth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.
Moreover, the fees of our treatments at our Calgary dental clinic Taradale Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This ensures transparent and fair pricing, with no hidden costs.
We hope to see you soon at our Taradale Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://taradaledental.ca/!
References
[1] Meng, Y., Wu, F., Kwak, S., et al. (2025). Oral Bacterial and Fungal Microbiome and Subsequent Risk for Pancreatic Cancer. JAMA Oncology. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1001/jamaoncol.2025.3377.
[2] NHS. (2023). What is pancreatic cancer?. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pancreatic-cancer/what-is-pancreatic-cancer/. Last accessed: 23rd September 2025.
[3] Qin, N., Yang, F., Li, A., et al. (2014). Alterations of the human gut microbiome in liver cirrhosis. Nature. 513: p59-64. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/nature13568.
