Pancreatic Cancer
CancerWorld/LinkedIn

What If a Saliva Sample Could Help Flag Pancreatic Cancer Risk? – CancerWorld

CancerWorld shared a post on LinkedIn:

“What if a saliva sample could help flag Pancreatic Cancer risk?

A new study in JAMA Oncology suggests this possibility is closer than we think.

Researchers have identified 27 oral bacteria and fungi linked to a 3.5× higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer, including key periodontal pathogens like P. gingivalis and P. micra. Using whole-genome sequencing, the team created a Microbial Risk Score that sharply differentiates high-risk from low-risk individuals based solely on their oral microbiome.

While it’s too early for clinical use, the findings reinforce growing evidence that oral health matters far beyond the mouth, offering a potential non-invasive biomarker for earlier detection of one of the deadliest cancers.

The study also highlights actionable steps — all linked to a healthier microbiome:

  • Prioritize oral hygiene
  • Stop smoking
  • Limit heavy alcohol use

Read the full CancerWorld article.

Written by: Janet Fricker
Illustrator: Lyana Gogyan
Independent Commenter: Dominique Michaud”

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