Colorectal cancer, or CRC, is one of the other major cancer types that causes death. However, new literature has found that a variety of oral cavity microbial flora, especially Fusobacterium nucleatum, might play a role in the occurrence of this cancer. This bacterium is usually associated with mouth infections and can even migrate to the colon, a part of the gastrointestinal tract.
There are two main ways this bacteria can reach the colon. First, it can be ingested through food or drink in the stomach. Second, it can enter the bloodstream when there is a sudden rush of blood to the mouth, such as during tooth brushing. Once in the colon, F. nucleatum can cause inflammation or create a fluid buildup with more blood than usual. This irritation can worsen inflammation in the area and may lead to cancer growth.
The blog “Unveiling the Link: How Mouth Bacteria Can Fuel Colon Cancer Growth” shows that people with colorectal cancer (CRC) have more Fusobacterium nucleatum in their bodies than healthy people. Understanding how these bacteria contribute to tumors is also essential. This knowledge could help improve ways to prevent and treat CRC.
Oral Microbiome: How Does It Affect Health?
The oral cavity can be described as a miniature depiction of the human oral ecological system, rich in many microorganisms, most of which are scarce or completely absent. This category of organisms is referred to as the oral microbiome. Around 700 species are known for their existence, including viruses, fungi, and bacteria. Other microorganisms, however, have a role; in this example, they assist in food digestion and defend the mouth from bacteria that trigger disease.
On the other hand, harmful bacteria occasionally overgrow and upset this balance, leading to cavities or gum problems. It is not only the mouth that is affected; such issues may also lead to maximum lethargy and possibly heart issues, diabetes, and other health problems. Regular mouth hygiene practices such as brushing teeth, a balanced diet, and dental checkups are thus of utmost importance. Therefore, one can prevent the oral microbiome from becoming imbalanced.
Pathways from Oral Cavity to Colon
Some studies indicate that some of the bacteria from the oral cavity could be transferred to the intestines and stomach regions, especially in poor dietary or oral cleanliness conditions. There is a known case in which Fusobacterium nucleatum shifts the good-bad balance of the bacteria in that specific environment when it arrives at the intestines. Such alteration may predispose one to numerous diseases, the most prominent of which is CRC.
Fusobacterium nucleatum, which originates in the mouth, is closely associated with the genesis of colon neoplasms. It is possible to endure stomach acidity and reside within the intestines. It can survive the stomach’s harsh environment and dwell in the intestines. This bacterium could contribute to cancer in a variety of ways:
- Tissue Inflammation: It enhances tissue inflammation, which could exacerbate cancer progression.
- Biofilm formation: It attaches to structures and forms layers, enhancing its aggressiveness.
- Genetics: The outlook of individuals carrying various strains of this bacteria can be very different.
Proper dental care in areas with prevalent bacterial colonies is essential to prevent specific risks, including cancer.
Evidence Linked Colorectal Cancer to Oral Bacteria
A recent link has been established between a bacterium named Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum) and the chances of an individual developing CRC. This bacterium is also found in the intestines despite initially colonizing the mouth. F. nucleatum is often found in neoplastic than non-neoplastic areas, and about half of all CRCs have been attributed to it.
Fusobacterium nucleatum is found in the intestines as part of the bacterial flora and can grow there. It is linked to the start and growth of tumors. Patients with tumors that have F. nucleatum often do not do as well, which suggests that this bacterium may lead to a worse outcome in cancer.
Clinical solid evidence shows F. Nucleatum’s direct link to cancer progression and treatment efficacy. It stimulates gut microbiome turnover, inflammation, and cancer immune evasion. Importantly, this bacterium is vital for the development of colorectal cancer. Knowing how F. nucleatum causes these diseases opens ways for innovative treatment and access.
Implications for Prevention and Treatment
When we consider issues linked with colorectal cancer (CRC), one pertinent question should bother us—what role do those bacteria in our mouths play in our overall health? Research indicates oral hygiene prevents pathogenic bacteria like Fusobacterium nucleatum from entering the stomach and intestines. This means brushing our teeth twice daily, flossing, and regularly visiting dentists should be the three habits we all develop. These habits, these authors claim, will keep the oral cavity healthy and could even reduce the risk of CRC by preventing harmful bacteria from translocating into the human body.
Chasing specific bacteria is another most exciting aspect of the research. There is an active search for possible methods to prevent and reduce the population of this Fusobacterium Nucleatum in the oral cavity. This bacterium is believed to attach itself to cancer cells and stimulate their development. If we were to create specific treatment options, such as probiotics or other medications targeting this bacteria, we could reduce the chances of contracting CRC or help treat those with it.
Next, they are trying to develop new screening tests, too. Their goal is to identify specific types of bacteria associated with CRC and develop tests that may lead to early detection of the disease. This has the potential to improve treatment and prognosis for patients.
To sum up, proper oral health goes beyond just aesthetics; it can even play a role in reducing the incidence of malignant conditions such as CRC. Oral hygiene can be maintained with daily tooth brushing, accessorized with floss measures, and regular dental checkups.
Ayurvedic Approach To Manage Oral Bacteria
Ayurveda treats any imbalances in the body and elucidates many techniques and methods to care for the mouth. Here are essential Ayurvedic principles that can assist us with mouth and oral hygiene:
- Herbalism: Various herbs are used in Ayurveda, and neem is one of them. Neem can be used to promote antibacterial propensities. Chewing neem twigs or neem toothpaste removes plaque and lessens associated gum problems. Another helpful remedy is Triphala, a formulation of three fruits that works as a mouthwash and can be used to cleanse the mouth and inhibit bacterial growth.
- Oil pulling: This method is ancient and well-established. It involves swishing oil, such as organic sesame or coconut oil, for about 15-20 minutes. This practice helps remove poisonous elements and nourishes saliva within the mouth, giving it freshness and a strong defense against bad breath-causing foliage plants.
- Daily Oral Hygiene Practices: Dant Dhavani, namely brushing with Danta or any herbal Stick; Jivha Lekhana, tongue scraping; and Gandusha, gargling. All these practices promote a healthy mouth while reducing the possibility of infections. They also increase salivary flow, which facilitates oral health.
Overall, Ayurveda uses a holistic approach, combining natural treatment with routine activities to promote oral hygiene and control the bacterial load. These practices allow us to preserve our oral structures and the beauty of our smiles.
Conclusion
The path traced by food swallowing from our mouth to our colon has many revelations, especially regarding oral health and its inclusive approach to preventing CRC. Research studies have proved that certain bacteria from our mouths could migrate through the intestines and potentially induce cancer. This extends to oral care beyond the simple activity of not developing cavities in our mouths.
Routine dental assessments, twice-daily brushing, and once-daily cleaning maintain strong teeth and healthy gums. This prevents bacteria from proliferating in the mouth. Further insights on oral health and related ailments like colorectal cancer are also on the horizon.
Tiny pathogenic microorganisms are always present during illness and can be useful for our search for other ways to combat disease. Implementing biohacking techniques focusing on dental tissues and oral bacteria is crucial for significantly reducing the risk of colorectal cancer and enhancing overall health.
Sources:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8824753/
https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/cancer-currents-blog/2024/colorectal-cancer-fna-c2-bacteria
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3931197/
https://www.ijhsr.org/IJHSR_Vol.11_Issue.10_Oct2021/IJHSR027.pdf