Gum disease may raise risk of some cancers
People with history of gum disease appear to have higher risk of developing oesophageal and gastric cancer, suggest researchers
People who have periodontal (gum) disease may have a higher risk of developing some forms of cancer, suggests a letter published in the journal Gut detailing a prospective study.
US researchers found that a history of periodontal disease appeared to be associated with a raised risk of esophageal (gullet) cancer and gastric (stomach) cancer and this risk was also higher among people who had lost teeth previously.
Previous findings on the relationship of periodontal disease and tooth loss with esophageal and gastric cancer have been inconsistent.
Therefore, a team of researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, in Boston, USA, carried out a study of data on patients over decades of follow up.
They examined the association of history of periodontal disease and tooth loss with the risk of esophageal and gastric cancer in 98,459 women from the Nurses' Health Study (1992-2014) and 49,685 men from the Health Professionals Follow-up Study (1988-2016).
Dental measures, demographics, lifestyle, and diet were assessed using follow-up questionnaires and self-reported cancer diagnosis was confirmed after reviewing medical records.
The results showed that during 22-28 years of follow-up, there were 199 cases of esophageal cancer and 238 cases of gastric cancer.
A history of periodontal disease was associated with a 43% and 52% increased risk of esophageal cancer and gastric cancer, respectively.
Compared to people with no tooth loss, the risks of esophageal and gastric cancer for those who lost two or more teeth were also modestly higher -- 42% and 33%, respectively.
In addition, among individuals with a history of periodontal disease, no tooth loss and losing one or more teeth were equally associated with a 59% increased risk of esophageal cancer compared to those with no history of periodontal disease and no tooth loss.
Similarly, the same group of individuals had 50% and 68% greater risk of gastric cancer, respectively.
Advancements in Oral Cancer Therapy: The Role of Botanical Compounds in Tumor Management
A plant-based drug called APG-157 has shown signs of helping patients fight oral and oropharyngeal cancers, according to a phase I clinical trial led by the University of California at Los Angeles Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center.
The landscape of oral and oropharyngeal cancer treatment is evolving, with new research highlighting the potential of botanical drug candidates to complement traditional oncology protocols. A recent Phase I clinical trial led by the UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center has revealed promising data regarding APG-157, a plant-based drug that targets the inflammatory and microbial environment of oral tumors.
At CJ Henley, DMD, our involvement in the Baptist MD Anderson Head and Neck Tumor Board allows us to integrate these emerging clinical insights into our specialized care for patients navigating cancer treatment.
The Science Behind APG-157: Curcumin and Inflammation
APG-157 is a botanical drug composed of multiple plant-derived compounds, most notably curcumin. The clinical trial demonstrated that when taken orally, high concentrations of curcumin and its metabolic byproducts are absorbed by tumor tissues in as little as three hours.
The significance of this absorption lies in its effect on cytokines—the proteins responsible for driving inflammation within the body. By reducing cytokine concentrations in the saliva, APG-157 may help modulate the inflammatory "microenvironment" that allows tumors to thrive.
Microbiome Modulation and Gram-Negative Bacteria
Beyond inflammation, this therapy addresses the oral microbiome. Researchers found that APG-157 reduced the relative abundance of Bacteroides species, a group of gram-negative bacteria.
Gram-negative bacteria possess a protective outer layer that effectively "hides" them from the immune system. In the context of oral health, an overabundance of these bacteria is closely correlated with the development and progression of oral cancers. Reducing these bacterial populations is a critical step in restoring a healthy oral environment during and after cancer therapy.
A Medically-Informed Approach to Oncology Dental Care
As a practice focused on Complex & Medically Involved Care, we understand that oral cancer treatment requires more than routine dentistry. It requires a deep understanding of how systemic therapies and the oral microbiome interact.
We prioritize a two-hour comprehensive evaluation for our oncology patients to discuss these emerging therapies, manage side effects like xerostomia, and coordinate care with your medical team to ensure the best possible long-term outcomes.
Reviewed and Updated February 2026
History of Gum Disease Increases Cancer Risk in Older Women
Postmenopausal women who have a history of gum disease also have a higher risk of cancer, according to a new study of more than 65,000 women.
Postmenopausal women who have a history of gum disease also have a higher risk of cancer, according to a new study of more than 65,000 women.
The study, led by researchers at the University at Buffalo, is the first national study of its kind involving U.S. women, and the first to focus specifically on older women. It's also the first study to find an association between periodontal disease and gallbladder cancer risk in women or men. The findings were published today (Aug. 1) in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention.
"This study is the first national study focused on women, particularly older women," said Jean Wactawski-Wende, the study's senior author.
"Our study was sufficiently large and detailed enough to examine not just overall risk of cancer among older women with periodontal disease, but also to provide useful information on a number of cancer-specific sites," added Wactawski-Wende, dean of UB's School of Public Health and Health Professions and a professor of epidemiology and environmental health.
Periodontal Disease and Breast Cancer: Understanding the Possible Connection
Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. While it is commonly discussed in the context of oral health, research over the past decade has explored whether chronic inflammation in the mouth may be linked to broader systemic conditions — including certain cancers.
Breast cancer is one area where a possible association has been studied. It’s important to approach this topic carefully: research suggests a potential link, not a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Still, the findings are worth understanding.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease begins as gingivitis, marked by gum inflammation and bleeding. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where inflammation leads to loss of bone and connective tissue supporting the teeth.
This condition is driven by:
bacterial biofilm beneath the gums
a sustained inflammatory immune response
changes in the oral microbiome
Because periodontal disease is chronic and inflammatory, researchers have long questioned whether its effects extend beyond the mouth.
Why Inflammation Matters
Chronic inflammation plays a role in many systemic diseases. Persistent inflammatory signaling can influence immune function, hormone regulation, and cellular behavior throughout the body.
Periodontal disease contributes to:
elevated inflammatory markers
intermittent bacteremia (bacteria entering the bloodstream)
immune system activation over long periods of time
These mechanisms are what prompted researchers to explore associations between gum disease and conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.
What the Research Suggests About Breast Cancer
Several large observational studies have reported an association between periodontal disease and an increased incidence of breast cancer. Importantly:
These studies show correlation, not causation
Periodontal disease does not cause breast cancer
Many shared risk factors exist, including smoking, inflammation, hormonal influences, and immune response differences
Some researchers hypothesize that chronic oral inflammation or changes in oral bacteria may influence systemic inflammatory pathways. Others suggest periodontal disease may simply be a marker of overall inflammatory burden rather than a direct contributor.
At present, no evidence supports the idea that treating periodontal disease prevents breast cancer — but maintaining oral health remains an important part of overall wellness.
What This Means for Patients
The takeaway is not fear — it’s perspective.
Good periodontal health:
reduces chronic inflammation
supports immune system balance
protects oral structures long term
contributes to overall health awareness
For patients with a history of cancer, those undergoing treatment, or those managing complex medical conditions, maintaining healthy gums is especially important. Cancer therapies can affect oral tissues, saliva production, and healing capacity, making prevention and early management essential.
Oral Health as Part of Whole-Body Care
Dentistry does not exist in isolation from the rest of the body. Periodontal disease is one example of how oral health and systemic health intersect — not through simple cause-and-effect relationships, but through shared biological pathways.
Understanding these connections allows care to be more thoughtful, individualized, and preventative rather than reactive.
A Thoughtful, Evidence-Based Approach
Claims about oral health and cancer should always be evaluated carefully. Sound care is grounded in evidence, context, and restraint — not headlines or fear-based messaging.
Maintaining healthy gums is an important part of long-term health, but it is one piece of a much larger picture that includes genetics, lifestyle, medical care, and preventive screening.
About the Author
CJ Henley, DMD, is a dentist in private practice in the San Marco area of Jacksonville, Florida. A graduate of the University of Florida College of Dentistry, he has served as Courtesy Faculty for his alma mater and is a former President of the Northeast District Dental Association.
Beyond private practice, Dr. Henley serves on the Head and Neck Tumor Board at the MD Anderson Cancer Center, where he collaborates with oncologists and specialists to manage the complex oral health needs of patients undergoing cancer treatment. He is dedicated to an evidence-based approach that recognizes the vital connection between periodontal health and whole-body wellness.
Reviewed and updated January 2026