An Alert from Anton Bilchik – Mouth Bacteria May Trigger Colorectal Cancer

Anton Bilchik recently learned of two studies that suggest the bacteria in your mouth may trigger colorectal cancer, which is an abnormal growth in the lining of the last part of the intestine or the rectum. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of death, in men and women combined, in the United States. Dr. Bilchik is dedicated to reducing these numbers through excellent medical care and patient education. Now Anton Bilchik wants you to know about the possible relationship between colorectal cancer and mouth bacteria.

Your gut contains trillions of bacteria. Most of the bacteria in your gut are beneficial, helping you stay healthy by training your immune system and assisting with digestion. Sometimes, however, these bacteria can cause illness. There may be some evidence that shows an imbalance between “good” and “bad” bacteria promotes illnesses, especially colon cancer.

The two studies, published in Cell Host & Microbe, focus on a genus of bacteria called Fusobacteria, and the species F. nucleatum in particular. In the first study, researchers found the bacteria Fusobacteria in benign tumors, which might become cancerous some day. The scientists believe the bacteria may contribute to the early formation of tumors, and that Fusobacteria may help speed the growth of tumors once they do form.

Scientists from the second study found that the Fusobacteria bacterium uses a molecule on its surface, called the Fusobacterium adhesin A (FadA), to stick to human colorectal cancer cells. The bacteria also use these molecules to invade these cancer cells and “switch on” genes that spur cancer cell growth. These researchers also found that nearby healthy tissue had lower levels of FadA than did cancerous tissue.

Anton Bilchik will continue to follow this research and apply this newfound knowledge to his cancer surgery practice. Contact Dr. Bilchik or your physician to learn more about the connection between colorectal cancer and mouth bacteria.