Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Gum Disease linked to Cancer

This is getting scarier and scarier with every study they do. So brush & floss regularly, folks. And visit the dentist at least once every six months.

Gum disease indicates a higher risk of developing cancer, scientists have found. Patients with a history of gum disease have been found to have a 14 per cent higher risk of developing any form of tumour.

There are two main forms of gum disease: gingivitis – inflammation of the gums and bleeding – and the more advanced periodontal disease, which affects tissues and bone supporting the teeth and can lead them to fall out.

The more severe forms of gum disease have already been linked with an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke. A team at Imperial College London has found an association with cancer. (Telegraph)

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