Cancer alert: Oral microbes identified as new risk factor for pancreatic cancer (early signs, other risk factors, and prevention tips)

Known as a “silent killer,” pancreatic cancer mostly creeps in quietly with almost undetectable symptoms, and yet remains a significant health challenge across the globe. With over half a million new cases and an almost equal number of deaths worldwide in 2021, this disease is a concern with increasing incidence and mortality rates worldwide.

Pancreatic cancer is often considered deadly due to its tendency to be diagnosed at a late stage, its aggressive nature, and the lack of effective treatments for advanced cases. Now, a groundbreaking new study has uncovered a surprising connection: microbes in your mouth – certain bacteria and fungi – may significantly raise the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. This discovery opens up a fresh way of thinking about prevention, diagnosis, and oral care.
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What did the study find

Researchers from NYU Langone Health and the Perlmutter Cancer Center analyzed saliva samples from a massive cohort of over 122,000 people, tracking them over nearly nine years. In that time, 445 participants developed pancreatic cancer. The scientists compared those individuals’ oral bacterial and fungal profiles with a matched control group to see which microbes were more common in the “cancer group.”

What are the key findings?

The researchers identified 24-27 species of oral bacteria and fungi that were individually associated with increased, or in some cases decreased, risk of pancreatic cancer.

Among the standout 3 bacteria were Porphyromonas gingivalis, Eubacterium nodatum, and Parvimonas micra – species already linked to gum disease.

In terms of fungi, species of the Candida genus showed an association with higher pancreatic cancer risk.

When these risk microbes were combined into a microbial risk score (MRS), people with higher scores had about a 3.4 to 3.5-fold greater risk of pancreatic cancer compared to those with lower scores.

Because pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed late, the authors propose that profiling the mouth’s microbiome might one day serve as a noninvasive biomarker to flag high-risk individuals.

Still, the researchers emphasize that the study finds correlation, not clear causation. More research is needed to confirm how, and if, these microbes directly contribute to cancer formation.


Pancreatic cancer: What it is and the early signs to watch for

Pancreatic cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancerous) cells form in the tissues of the pancreas. The pancreas is a gland located behind the stomach that plays a crucial role in digestion and blood sugar regulation by producing enzymes and hormones.

While the exact causes are not always clear, risk factors include smoking, family history of pancreatic cancer, long-standing type 2 diabetes, and chronic pancreatitis. Pancreatic cancer is often difficult to diagnose early because symptoms may be subtle or absent in the early stages.

As pancreatic cancer is notoriously stealthy in its early stages and many cases are found late, knowing possible early signs and symptoms can help with earlier detection.


Here are some red flags to watch out for:

Abdominal pain that radiates toward the back

Unexplained weight loss

Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly

Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), especially if accompanied by dark urine or pale stools

New-onset diabetes or worsening control in someone who already has diabetes

Digestive issues like nausea or indigestion, sometimes after meals

Because these symptoms are common to many other conditions, they are often overlooked until the disease progresses. When pancreatic cancer is detected early, outcomes are better, but that remains a significant challenge in current medical practice.


Risk factors

While oral health is an emerging risk factor, several other factors contribute to pancreatic cancer risk:

Age: The risk increases with age, particularly after 60.

Smoking: Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor.

Family history: A family history of pancreatic cancer can elevate risk.

Chronic pancreatitis: Long-term inflammation of the pancreas is linked to increased risk.

Diabetes: Having diabetes, especially type 2, may raise the risk.

Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the likelihood of developing the disease.



Prevention tips

While not all risk factors are controllable, several lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer:

Maintain good oral hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing can help prevent gum disease and reduce the presence of harmful oral microbes.

Healthy diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Regular exercise: Engage in physical activity to maintain a healthy weight.

Quit smoking: Eliminating tobacco use significantly lowers cancer risk.

Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive drinking can increase risk.

Regular medical check-ups: Routine screenings can help detect potential issues early.