Maintaining good oral hygiene can significantly improve cancer treatment outcomes and survival rates, according to a recent paper by oncologists from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi.
Published in The Lancet Regional Health – Southeast Asia, the article by Dr. Abhishek Shankar and Dr. Vaibhav Sahni highlights the critical role of oral health in cancer prevention, management, and survivorship. The researchers emphasize the urgent need for public health initiatives focusing on oral care across all levels of healthcare.
Bacteria and Cancer: The Hidden Link
The researchers note that harmful oral bacteria—such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia—have been linked to increased cancer risk and worsened survival outcomes in cancer patients. These pathogens are known to cause inflammation and may contribute to the development and progression of several cancers, especially head and neck cancers (HNC).
Oral Health Can Reduce Cancer Mortality
Quoting global studies, the AIIMS experts said that regular dental check-ups over the past decade have been associated with lower cancer mortality. This supports the idea that preventive oral care can play a pivotal role in reducing the burden of disease and improving long-term health outcomes.
Public Health Recommendations by AIIMS
The paper proposes several actionable public health strategies:
“We aim to highlight the broader systemic and public health role of oral care, especially in the Southeast Asian context,” said Dr. Shankar, Assistant Professor of Radiation Oncology at AIIMS Delhi.
“Focusing on preventive measures like oral hygiene will not only benefit patients but also reduce the financial burden on public healthcare,” he added.
Need for Region-Specific Research
Dr. Sahni, a scientist in the Department of Radiation Oncology, emphasized the need for localized research and warned against relying solely on Western data to drive policy in South Asia.
“We need strong, region-specific evidence to guide cancer care strategies in Southeast Asia,” he said.
Conclusion
The AIIMS study underscores a crucial but often overlooked aspect of cancer care—oral health. By integrating dental hygiene into public health policy and everyday practice, the healthcare system can significantly improve cancer outcomes, reduce mortality, and enhance quality of life for millions across India and Southeast Asia.
