Is Cancer Actually Caused by Bacterial Infections?

The search for causes and cures for cancer continues as millions of people await findings for hope and possible new treatment options. While the topic has been considered before, new research further explores the possibility that bacteria might be a causal factor for cancer, and may even be the reason cancer develops.

New research in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests that bacteria may be behind cancer. Scientists at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore found a bacterial infection that can disrupt the DNA repair in cells, which is a known cause of cancer.

According to Robert C. Gallo, the study’s lead author and professor of medicine and director of the university’s Institute of Human Virology in an interview with Medical News Today: “Approximately 20 percent of cancers are thought to be caused by an infection, most are known to be due to viruses.”

The researchers identified a family of ultra-small bacteria known as mycoplasms that have been linked to cancers, particularly among those with HIV. Once thought to be viruses due to their microscopic size, scientists now know that mycoplasms are bacteria. 

“Our work provides an explanation for how a bacterial infection can trigger a series of events that lead to cancer,” added Dr. Gallo. While it might seem terrifying to think that an infection might have that kind of power, it’s important to remember that the more scientists understand the mechanisms behind cancer, the greater the chances of learning how to overcome the dreaded disease.

Does that mean taking antibiotics is the key to the cure? It’s too soon to say. The research is in its infancy. Additionally, the infection link is not behind all types of cancers so it’s important to bear that fact in mind. Considering the increasing bacterial resistance to antibiotics, relying on these drugs as a treatment certainly would not be wise.

And, while we can’t state with any certainly whether natural anti-bacterial agents would help in the prevention or treatment of cancer, given their other health benefits and their lack of harmful side-effects, they are certainly worth consideration.

Some of the best antibacterial foods include: cinnamon, cranberries, garlic, ginger, green tea, kimchi, onions, sauerkraut and turmeric. Plentiful amounts of research showcase the antibacterial qualities of these foods against a wide variety of bacteria, although the research into mycoplasms is still in its infancy.

There are also many excellent antibacterial herbs and natural medicines, which include: cinnamon essential oil, dandelion, oregano essential oil or tincture, thyme essential oil or tincture, to name a few.

Many of the essential oils on the market are not pure, do not use the correct species of plant, contain harmful solvents used in the extraction process, or are harvested using unsustainable methods. Additionally, most have been diluted, even when they state otherwise, so it’s important to purchase your oils from a company that provides verifiable third-party laboratory testing to ensure purity and potency.

And, do some research into the products you select. A surprising amount of the oregano oil on the market, as an example, is not actually oregano but the Latin name for marjoram, Origanum majorana, allows companies to dupe consumers into thinking they are buying oregano.

Some of these remedies require special care in their use so be sure to follow package directions or work with a skilled natural health practitioner.