In Today's health matters, a small study indicates some of the bacteria found in gum disease may be associated with the development of pancreatic cancer.

Researchers compared bacteria found in the mouths of nearly 40 people with pancreatic cancer and the same number without it.

They found significant differences between the bacteria found in the mouths of each group. Cancer patients had significantly higher levels of certain bacteria and lower levels of others compared to healthy people.

Study authors say while they did not prove these bacterial levels could cause pancreatic cancer. Their findings back previous research indicating bacteria could play a role in the development of it.

Findings appear in the 'British Medical Journal.'