According to national statistics, breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among women in America. Scientists believe that early detection of breast cancer can help to save women from costly chemotherapy sessions and surgery.
A study published in General Dentistry says that with the new saliva tests, dentists can assist in the detection of the disease as they have an access to remove saliva samples from a patient's mouth during routine visits.
Also the fact that women visit their dentists more often than their physician may help with early detection. The salivary testing is also more beneficial than blood analysis as the saliva is a clear, colorless liquid, while blood undergoes changes in color, thus affecting the test results.
Researchers also believe that the collection of saliva is also safe, non-invasive, and can be done without inflicting any pain to the patient. Doctors are currently awaiting an approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
However, the doctors have warned women not to rely on this method entirely for detecting breast cancer and has encouraged them to also include regular mammogram screenings or blood analysis.
