UCLA researcher Dr David Wong's just released study finds that the makeup of one's saliva can help lead to early diagnosis of possible health problems.
Online PR News – 23-October-2012 –UCLA researcher Dr David Wong's just released study finds that the makeup of one's saliva can help lead to early diagnosis of possible health problems. Saliva is made up of molecules and if the appropriate scientific tools are applied, a wealth of information may be revealed in a person's saliva. In particular, in the proteins and DNA contained in the saliva samples.
This type of research is called "salivanomics." Salivanomics is still in its early stages but many researchers, including Dr Wong, find value in it. It's possible in the not so distant future that doctors or dentists may be able to identify biomarkers in saliva that can be used to identify or curtail health problems. This could have huge ramifications on the future of healthcare.
Unlike blood tests, saliva tests are painless and are apt to encounter less resistance. Also, since no needles are used the risk of infection or contamination are minimal or non-existent. According to Dr Wong, about 20 percent of Americans visit their dentists more frequently than their doctors, so dentists could join the front lines of disease prevention. Dentists could also offers these tests to patients who are wary of visiting their doctor's office or to those who don't receive regular medical care.
As salivanomics advances, doctors may be able to use saliva to screen for cancers, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. It's also possible that testing centers may offer saliva tests via mail since one can perform the tests at home and there's no need to send blood via the mail. Many people fear needles or going to the doctor needlessly, but such services may soon make the whole process painless and convenient.