Could common morning mistake lead to cancer that's rising in young people? READ MORE: The six key head and neck cancer warning signs revealed By Emily Stearn, Health Reporter For Mailonline Published: 11:50 EDT, 26 September 2024 | Updated: 12:16 EDT, 26 September 2024 e-mail View comments Regularly brushing your teeth and flossing could slash your risk of head and neck cancer, a promising new study has suggested. Research has long shown that high levels bacteria linked to gum disease can raise the likelihood of the condition as well as diabetes and high blood pressure. But until now, experts did not know which specific bacteria lurking in people's mouths could be linked to head and neck cancer.
US scientists discovered more than a dozen species that collectively they say raise the risk of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma — the most common type — by 50 per cent. Researchers argue their findings highlight the importance of good oral hygiene — often considered brushing teeth twice a day, flossing and regularly visiting the dentist. Researchers argue their findings highlight the importance of good oral hygiene, often considered to be brushing teeth twice a day and regular dentist visits Surveys have shown, however, that just three in ten Brits floss daily.
Study co-author and an expert in population health at New York University (NYU), Professor Richard Hayes, said: 'Our results offer yet another reason to keep up good oral-hygiene habits. 'Brushing your teeth and flo.
