It's widely understood that the microbiome—especially microbes found in the mouth and the gut—can have a profound effect on health. In a study published in the journal Cell Host & Microbe on Aug. 20, researchers report that by analyzing the makeup of oral microbes, they may be able to detect signals associated with gastric (stomach) and colorectal cancer. These findings could lead to the development of new, less invasive screening tests for gastrointestinal cancers.

It's widely understood that the microbiome—especially microbes found in the mouth and the gut—can have a profound effect on health. In a study published in the journal Cell Host &…

Gastrointestinal cancers are among the most common cancers worldwide, and a leading cause of death.