Common bacteria in mouth can help predict progression of head and neck cancer

For decades, oral health care has mainly focused on preventing cavities and gum disease. However, scientific research has increasingly highlighted the importance of the oral microbiome—a set of microorganisms that naturally inhabit the oral cavity. Recent studies have shown links between imbalances in this microbial ecosystem and the development of head and neck cancers, as well as a growing body of evidence associating it with colorectal cancer.