Strange Colon Cancer Trigger Revealed

Among seniors, colon cancer rates have been decreasing.

But in folks under 50, rates are increasing at an alarming rate.

One likely reason for the decrease in the older population is screening procedures like colonoscopy and stool sample tests like Cologuard, which can catch pre-cancerous polyps before they cause a problem.

But, regardless of your age, reducing your risk should always be a priority.

Researchers recently identified a culprit that increases colon cancer growth and progression, and it’s found in the most puzzling place…

It turns out that the contents of your mouth could boost colon cancer growth. You see, just like your gut, your mouth has a whole colony of bacteria living inside.

The key (just like in your gut) is to make sure the good guys outnumber the bad guys.

The growth of certain bacteria in your mouth paves the way for gum disease. But one particular bad bacterium can also increase your risk of colon cancer.

Fusobacterium nucleatum is a bacterium that’s already associated with diseases ranging from GI disorders and cardiovascular disease to rheumatoid arthritis and Alzheimer’s.

Now, a recent study tied the ugly bug to the growth and progression of colon cancer. In fact, it’s linked to up to 50 percent of cases!

F. nucleatum is typically only found in the MOUTH in those who are cancer free.

However, scientists discovered that this bacterium is found in colon cancer far more often than in non-cancerous colon tissue.

In addition, the microbes were also shown to be present in higher numbers in the stool samples of colon cancer patients.

This study revealed that F. nucleatum has two main subtypes (or clades), and the second clade is more prominent in colon cancer tumors than in the mouth. Mice given clade 2 bacteria developed significantly more tumors in the large intestine than those given clade 1.

The study confirmed that the clade 2 bacteria are associated with…

• cellular damage,
• cancer cell division,
• and inflammation.

The researchers say the presence of this bacteria could help identify people at higher risk of colon cancer.

That may be true.

But I say that what this research actually highlights is the critical importance of focusing on oral health to support overall health—including potentially reducing the risk of things like colon cancer.

Subscribers can read the May issue of Natural Health Response for tips on taming bad bacteria in the mouth.

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P.S. “Forbidden Drink” SLASHES colon cancer risk 32%!

SOURCE:

Minot, S. S., et al., (2024). A distinct Fusobacterium nucleatum clade dominates the colorectal cancer niche. Nature, 628(8007), 424-432. doi. org / 10. 1038 /s41586-024-07182-w