Saliva: How It Could Help Dentists Check For Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer afflicting women. According to the American Cancer Society, the estimated number of women who are dead or will die from this disease this year is approximately 40,610. Dr. Ben Kacos shares how saliva testing can detect breast cancer.

Early diagnosis is crucial to the success of treatment. It also plays an important role in minimizing your risk of developing this disease. A breast cancer detection plan includes performing monthly breast self-exams, visiting your doctor for scheduled clinical breast exams, and following your specialist’s recommendations for a mammogram test.

Breast Cancer Detection Method

Various studies indicate that oral health can determine your overall well-being. The symptoms of certain illnesses can be present in the mouth.

For example, recurring mouth sores are a symptom commonly associated with lupus, HIV, and Crohn’s disease. Different scientific studies also show that a person’s susceptibility to certain diseases such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and heart disease can be determined by a saliva test.

To detect breast cancer, there is a new test that analyzes saliva. How it could help dentists check for breast cancer is quite a simple concept.

Saliva Testing for Breast Cancer

In addition, studies show that breast cancer patients typically have high protein levels. Using saliva, a patient’s protein levels will be analyzed. If they are particularly high, the patient will be recommended to undergo a mammogram and blood testing to validate the findings. If cancer is indeed present, the patient will also have to undergo imaging tests to find the exact location of the tumor or cancer.

The salivary test has notable advantages over blood testing. For one, researchers say that when saliva and blood samples are compared, blood can change color, which can affect results. Saliva, on the other hand, remains clear and colorless, and hence, results are more consistent and reliable. Saliva collection is non-invasive and can be done without causing the patient any pain or discomfort.

If the saliva test that analyzes protein levels passes the Food and Drug Administration, dentists can conduct the exam during the patient’s visit. If it gets approval, dentists and physicians can work together to help catch the onset of breast cancer early on.

Reducing Your Risk of Breast Cancer

Aside from early detection, you can reduce your risk of breast cancer through the following ways:

1. Maintaining a healthy weight.

2. Exercising regularly or staying physically active.

3. Changing your diet to include more fruits and vegetables.

4. Limiting alcohol consumption.

5. Stopping smoking.

To learn more about your oral health, check out our blogs.