Smoke And Saliva A Potent Cancer Mix

Normally, saliva provides a protective buffer between toxins and the lining of the mouth because it contains enzymes that neutralize harmful substances. But research published in the British Journal of Cancer suggests that the chemicals in tobacco smoke, when combined with saliva, destroy saliva's protective components, creating a corrosive mix that damages cells in the mouth and eventually turn them cancerous.

"Cigarette smoke is damaging on its own, but when mixed with saliva it turns the body against itself," says co-lead researcher Dr. Raphael Nagler of the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology. "Our study shows that when exposed to cigarette smoke, normally healthy saliva loses its beneficial qualities, turns traitor and actually aids in destroying the cells of the mouth and oral cavity."

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