A large-scale study involving three DCEG cohorts found that greater alpha diversity in the oral microbiome was associated with a lower risk of lung cancer. Specific bacterial genera were also found to be associated with lung cancer risk, particularly strong for squamous cell carcinoma cases among former smokers. These findings suggest that maintaining a balanced oral microbiome could play a protective role against lung cancer development.
Bacterial Genera Associated with Lung Cancer Risk
The study identified several bacterial genera that were associated with lung cancer risk. Certain genera were found to be more strongly associated with squamous cell carcinoma cases among former smokers.
Protective Role of Oral Microbiome Diversity
Greater alpha diversity in the oral microbiome, which reflects a more balanced and diverse microbial community, was associated with a lower risk of lung cancer development. This suggests that maintaining a healthy and diverse oral microbiome may play a protective role against lung cancer.