A recent study has found a link between periodontal (gum) disease and a 14% increase in cancer among older women, and 12% in women that have never smoked. The study followed more than 65,000 post-menopausal women enrolled in the ongoing Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study.

Older women with periodontal disease are three times more likely to develop esophageal cancer than those with healthy gums. Periodontal disease is also linked to a significant increase in breast cancer, as well as melanoma, gallbladder, lung and stomach cancers. Periodontal pathogens have been found in pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions. Although the exact reason for this isn’t known, researchers believe that the bacteria may spread through inhalation or saliva when you swallow, as well as bacteria entering the blood stream through oral tissues.

For full study info, click here.