01 Oct NYU Study Concludes Oral Bacteria Influence Risk of Head and Neck Cancer

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

Prof. Ahn

Jiyoung Ahn, PhD
Professor of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine
Associate Director for Population Science, NYU Perlmutter Cancer Center
NYU Langone Health
Smilow Research Building
New York, NY 10016

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?

Response: We found that oral bacterial species are linked to a collective 50% increased risk of developing head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Some of these microbes have previously been shown to contribute to periodontal disease, a serious gum infection that can erode the jawbone and the soft tissues surrounding the teeth.

MedicalResearch.com: Does this microbiome analysis include viruses such as HPV?

Response:  Previously, in the 2016 JAMA Oncology study, HPV was identified as a strong risk factor for head and neck cancer (HNC) in this population. We did not specifically study HPV and other viruses in this 2024 study. 

MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report?

Response: This study provides concrete evidence that oral bacteria influence the risk of head and neck cancer. 

MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a results of this study?

Response: We need to study the mechanisms that allow these microbes to contribute to cancer development and determine the most effective ways to intervene.

Citation:

Kwak S, Wang C, Usyk M, et al. Oral Microbiome and Subsequent Risk of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Cancer. JAMA Oncol. Published online September 26, 2024. doi:10.1001/jamaoncol.2024.4006

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Last Updated on October 1, 2024 by Marie Benz MD FAAD