Study Suggests Flossing Could Reduce Pancreatic Cancer Risk
A new study has suggested that flossing could help to reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer.
Flossing has long been associated with lowering the risk of dental decay and gum disease, but new research claims that it can also lower the risk of pancreatic cancer.
The research was carried out at Brown University, suggesting that the bacteria associated with gum disease may also be linked to pancreatic cancer. The findings of the study, which have recently been published in the journal Carcinogenesis, display worrying results. It shows that bacteria from the mouth can travel to other parts of the body, triggering an inflammatory response, affecting the immune system and potentially activating tumour signal pathways.
Dentists recommend flossing as it targets areas of the mouth, which are commonly missed during brushing. Flossing removes plaque and food debris from gaps between the teeth and the gum line, which reduces the risk of gum disease, bad breath and cavities.
In recent years a number of studies have suggested a link between oral health and general health and gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, strokes and now, pancreatic cancer.
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