Periodontal disease has been associated with an increased risk for many diseases, including heart disease, strokes, and diabetes. It is even linked to a number of cancers, namely oral, esophageal, pancreatic, and lung cancers. According to recent research, breast cancer may be added to this list.
A research team led by Jo L. Freudenheim, PhD, of the department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health in the University at Buffalo’s School of Public Health and Health Professions, NY, examined the health of almost 74,000 women. These women were all postmenopausal, and had no previous history of breast cancer. About 26% of them had some degree of periodontal disease. After 6.7 years, it was found that the risk of developing breast cancer was 14% higher in the women who had periodontal disease. The risk was particularly high among the women who were smokers or who had quit smoking within the past twenty years.
It is theorized that the bacteria linked to periodontal disease gets into the bloodstream and can affect breast tissue.
One way or another, it remains clear that your oral health is an important part of your overall bodily health. Talk to our Lynnwood dentistry clinic to learn more.
