Systemic Inflammation & Cancer

Posted on October 19th, 2009 | In Word Of Mouth

There is emerging science linking cancers of inflammatory origin with systemic inflammation. C-reactive protein and other cytokine levels, which are created from common infections such as gum disease, should be lowered through appropriate treatments.

Systemic Inflammation & Cancer

Cancers are now linked to systemic inflammation.

Emerging research is suggesting that cancers have a link to systemic inflammation. CRP, which is increased from chronic infections such as periodontal diseases. It has now been identified as a risk factor for developing cancer. Chances of contracting colorectal cancer increased progressively with higher serum CRP concentration (1).

Another study found tisease, is a risk factor for many that CRP concentrations were elevated among persons who subsequently developed colon cancer, further supporting the notion that systemic inflammation is risk factor for development of colon cancer in normal individuals (2).

CRP is also associated with prostate cancer. There is a strong association between CRP and PSA, independent of tumor stage, suggesting that inflammation might be fundamental to prostate cancer. These findings suggest that chronic systemic inflammation may be a legitimate target for prostate cancer chemoprevention and treatment (3).

Other research supports the conclusion that inflammation and cancer are strongly associated. Oral cancers are more prevalent in people with periodontal disease. There is an association between H. pylori and stomach cancer. Human papillomavirus and cervical cancer, and cytomegalovirus is linked with Kaposi’s sarcoma (4).

1- Johns Hopkins Medicine Office of Communications and Public Affairs. Feb. 3, 2004,JAMA. 2- Erlinger TP, et.al.,JAMA vol.291 No.5, Feb 4, 2004. 3- Lehrer S, et.al. BJU Int. 2005 May;95(7):961 4- Grossi S, et.al U.of Buffalo News Release. Mar 15, 2003. www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2003-03/uab-usl031303.php

Important Points:

• Gum disease increases systemic inflammation.
• CRP is linked with inflammatory cancers.
• Doctors should screen and treat for systemic inflamamtion.
• Tx for periodontal disease can reduce CRP levels.

Dr. David Weaver
Rivergate Dental Care
133 North Creek Blvd.
Goodlettsville, TN 37072

Phone: 888.411.SEDATE
Fax: 615.851.3535