OESOPHAGEAL cancer or cancer of the food-pipe affects about 8,750 people each year in Britain and Ireland and it is becoming more common.
The exact causes of oesophageal cancer aren't fully understood. It does appear more often in people who suffer from regular acid reflux but can also be due to diet, genetics and age.
However, for the first time researchers have suggested that a bacteria called Porphyromonas gingivalis could be a risk factor for oesophageal cancer. This bacteria is also responsible for gum disease.
The study was carried out in a Chinese university and the team found the gum infection bacteria present in 61 per cent of cancerous tissue samples.
Co-author Professor Huizhi Wang said: "These findings provide the first direct evidence that infection could be a novel risk factor for oesophageal cancer."
Oesophageal cancer tends to be hard to diagnose in the early stages. For many patients, the cancer develops rapidly after diagnosis and the prognosis is not good. So, linking the bacteria to oesophageal cancer could help produce a test to aid in the diagnosis of the cancer in the future.
Prof Wang speculated that by dealing directly to keep the bacterium under control then potentially the number of people who develop food-pipe cancer could be reduced.
People with oesophageal cancer may suffer from pain when they swallow, a hoarse voice or food can get stuck in their throat. It's also associated with a cough that won't go away, or a less common symptom is coughing up blood.
Prof Wang added that, should further studies actually prove that the P. gingivalis bacteria causes the cancer, then the implication would be enormous.
It would suggest that improving oral hygiene may reduce the risk of oesophageal cancer, screening for P. gingivalis in dental plaque may identify susceptible people and using antibiotics or other antibacterial strategies may prevent the cancer's progression.
If you think you have gum disease:
:: Have a deep clean with a hygienist. The teeth must be free from tartar if gums are to heal.
:: If you smoke – stop. Smokers are twice as likely to suffer from gum disease.
:: Use an electric toothbrush. Studies show that after three months of using an electric toothbrush there is an 11 per cent reduction of gum disease.
:: Clean in-between your teeth with floss, wood sticks, a water jet or small brushes every day.
