Oral Microbes and Pancreatic Cancer: A Hidden Connection
A groundbreaking new study from NYU Langone Health has revealed a surprising link between oral health and one of the deadliest forms of cancer. Researchers have found that certain microbes living in the mouth may dramatically increase the risk of pancreatic cancer – the world’s third leading cause of cancer-related deaths.
What the study found
The research team analyzed oral wash samples and medical records from more than 300,000 adults aged 50–70. Their findings were striking:
• The presence of specific bacteria and fungi was strongly tied to pancreatic cancer development.
• Porphyromonas gingivalis, Eubacterium nodatum, Parvimonas micra, and the fungus Candida tropicalis were associated with up to a 250% higher risk.
• In total, 13 oral microbes were linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer, while 8 others were linked to lower risk, suggesting that the balance of oral microbiota can play either a protective or harmful role.
How could microbes influence cancer?
Researchers believe that these microbes may travel from the mouth into the digestive tract, eventually reaching the pancreas. Once there, they could trigger inflammation or other changes that increase cancer risk.
Why this matters
Pancreatic cancer is notoriously difficult to detect early, which contributes to its low five-year survival rate of just 13%. By uncovering a possible microbial connection, this study opens the door to new prevention strategies and earlier detection methods.
Maintaining good oral hygiene—through daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups—could one day be considered an important step in reducing cancer risk, not just preserving dental health.
What’s next?
The NYU research team now plans to investigate whether oral viruses may also contribute to pancreatic cancer risk. As science continues to uncover the intricate links between the mouth and the body, one message is clear: oral health is whole-body health.
📌 Source: NYU Langone Health (2025), “Oral Microbes Linked to Increased Risk of Pancreatic Cancer”
