In a striking new development, researchers say certain microbes in the mouth may raise the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. The study, conducted by teams including NYU Langone Health and the Perlmutter Cancer Center, analyzed saliva samples from more than 122,000 individuals over nearly nine years and found that specific bacteria and fungi in the oral cavity were more common among those who later developed pancreatic cancer.
Among the microbes singled out were the bacterial species Porphyromonas gingivalis, Eubacterium nodatum, and Parvimonas micra, already known to be associated with gum disease. In addition, certain species of Candida fungi showed links with higher risk. The scientists created a “microbial risk score” (MRS) combining the presence of these microbes, and found that people with a high MRS had around 3.4 to 3.5 times greater risk of pancreatic cancer compared to those with a lower score.
However, the researchers emphasize that the study demonstrates association, not causation meaning it does not prove these oral microbes directly cause pancreatic cancer. More investigation is needed to understand how these microorganisms might influence cancer development, or whether they act as markers of broader health changes.
Pancreatic cancer is sometimes called a “silent killer” because it often shows few symptoms until it is at an advanced stage. Some possible early warning signs include abdominal pain radiating toward the back, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, new-onset diabetes or worsening control of diabetes, jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), and digestive troubles like nausea or indigestion. But these are nonspecific symptoms and often misattributed to other causes.
Traditional risk factors for pancreatic cancer remain important: advancing age (especially beyond 60), smoking, obesity, chronic pancreatitis, family history of pancreatic cancer, and type 2 diabetes. The new findings suggest that oral health and the microbiome might add another dimension to risk assessment.
To reduce risks, experts recommend maintaining good oral hygiene (regular brushing, flossing, dental checkups), following a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, getting regular physical activity, quitting smoking, limiting excessive alcohol use, and getting routine medical screenings. While we wait for further research, these preventive measures may help reduce overall cancer risk.
This discovery opens a promising new window in cancer research: if microbes in the mouth truly play a role, doctors may someday use saliva tests as a noninvasive early warning tool to flag individuals at higher risk of pancreatic cancer.
