Cell stress implicated in salivary gland failure causing dry mouth in radiation, Sjögren’s, diabetes, and aging

Reduced saliva production, known medically as xerostomia, poses a serious health concern for several vulnerable groups, including cancer patients receiving head and neck radiation therapy, individuals with Sjögren’s syndrome, people with diabetes, and older adults. In these populations, the condition extends beyond mere discomfort; it interferes with essential oral functions and can significantly diminish overall well‑being.

The lack of adequate saliva hampers eating, speaking, and swallowing, alters taste perception, and creates an environment conducive to dental cavities and oral infections. These complications can lead to nutritional deficiencies, increased medical expenses, and a heightened need for dental and medical interventions, underscoring the importance of early identification and management of xerostomia in at‑risk patients.