Recent studies have suggested a link between the oral microbiome and colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the colon and rectum, and it is the third most common cancer in the world. While the exact cause of colorectal cancer is not known, there are several risk factors that have been identified, including age, family history, and certain lifestyle factors.
Studies have shown that the oral microbiome can have an impact on the digestive system and may play a role in the development of colorectal cancer. In fact, certain types of harmful bacteria that are commonly found in the mouth, such as Fusobacterium nucleatum, can travel to the colon and contribute to the development of colorectal cancer. These harmful bacteria can cause inflammation, which can lead to the growth of cancer cells.
Fusobacterium nucleatum is a Gram-negative anaerobic bacterium that is commonly found in the human oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract. It is a pathogenic bacterium associated with various oral and systemic diseases, including periodontal disease, colorectal cancer, and intra-abdominal infections.
Fusobacterium nucleatum is known for its ability to adhere to and invade host cells, which contributes to its pathogenicity. It can also form biofilms, which are complex communities of bacteria that are attached to surfaces and can be difficult to remove. F. nucleatum is considered a "bridge organism" that can facilitate the colonization and growth of other pathogenic bacteria in the oral cavity, contributing to the development of periodontal disease.
In addition to its role in oral health, F. nucleatum has been implicated in systemic diseases, particularly colorectal cancer. Studies have shown that F. nucleatum can be detected in higher levels in colorectal cancer tissues compared to normal tissues, and it is thought to play a role in promoting inflammation and tumor progression. However, the exact mechanisms by which F. nucleatum contributes to colorectal cancer development are still being investigated.
Fusobacterium nucleatum has been implicated in the development and progression of colorectal cancer, which is a type of cancer that originates in the colon or rectum. Several studies have shown an association between the presence of F. nucleatum in colorectal tumor tissue and an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer.
One proposed mechanism by which F. nucleatum may contribute to colorectal cancer is through its ability to promote chronic inflammation in the gut. F. nucleatum has been shown to activate immune responses and produce pro-inflammatory molecules, which can lead to chronic inflammation in the gut lining. Chronic inflammation has been implicated in the development of colorectal cancer as it can cause DNA damage, disrupt the normal functioning of cells, and promote tumor growth.
In addition to its pro-inflammatory properties, F. nucleatum has been found to promote colorectal cancer by enhancing tumor cell growth and invasion. F. nucleatum has been shown to interact with and adhere to colorectal cancer cells, promoting their survival, proliferation, and ability to invade surrounding tissues. F. nucleatum can also disrupt the integrity of the gut barrier, allowing bacteria and other harmful substances to penetrate the gut lining and trigger an immune response, potentially contributing to the development of colorectal cancer.
The link between the oral microbiome and colorectal cancer highlights the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing any oral health issues promptly. In fact, some studies have found that certain species of bacteria commonly found in the mouth, such as Fusobacterium nucleatum, are also found in the tumors of patients with colorectal cancer. This suggests that the bacteria in the mouth may play a role in the development and progression of the disease.
At Dentulu, we offer salivary testing for the oral microbiome, which can help identify any imbalances in the oral microbiome and allow our dentists to develop a personalized treatment plan. By maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing any imbalances in the oral microbiome, we can help our patients reduce their risk of developing colorectal cancer and other systemic diseases.
Generally, a salivary testing report will include the patient's identifying factors such as age, name, gender, and the date of the test. Next it will identify the testing results which could include inflammatory markers, oxidative stress markers, and genetic markers. Finally it will include a section on interpreting your results.
At Dentulu, we highly recommend each patient to schedule an appointment with their general dentist or primary care physician, or one of our highly trained Dentulu Teledentists who can discuss with you and assess your current dental and health conditions as well as prior health history to come up with the most appropriate care plan for your needs.
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It’s simple! Click the link below, choose the package you'd like, follow the prompts, and have the kit delivered right to your door!
Once your test results come in, you can interpret the results yourself, follow up with your regular dentist, or schedule a consultation with one of our Dentulu Teledentists from your computer or mobile device at any time that is convenient for you!
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