Study Links Gum Disease to Elevated Breast Cancer Risk

SaludToday Guest Blogger Jefferson Dental Clinics Women with gum disease have up to a 36% higher risk of breast cancer, according to a recent study. That’s alarming given that 6 in 10 Latinos have gum disease (known as periodontal disease)—the highest rates of this condition among all racial/ethnic groups—and Latinas are 20% more likely to die from breast cancer than non-Latinas. Gum disease, which is mainly caused by poor oral health and smoking, occurs when pockets in the gums form around teeth, allowing the growth of bacteria that can cause teeth to loosen and even fall out. The connection between gum disease and cancer is profound. “Women with periodontal disease who were former smokers had a 36% higher risk of breast cancer, women who were smoking at the time ...