Possible gum disease and heart risk link

Looking after your teeth and gums could be one way of reducing your risk of heart disease, according to a new study carried out in Belfast.

Researchers at Queen’s University – funded by Northern Ireland Chest, Heart and Stroke (NICHS) – found that middle aged men with gum disease were three times more likely to suffer from coronary heart disease (CHD).

BACTERIA
The research team, headed by Jim Briggs and Professor Gerry Linden at the School of Dentistry, found that the risk arose even when all other cardiovascular risks and diabetes were taken into account.

Several previous studies have found evidence of bacteria in the arteries of heart patients that is commonly associated with gum disease. It is believed to cause damage by triggering an inflammatory response in the body.

Four out of ten people over the age of 40 in Northern Ireland have significant gum disease.

Andrew Dougal, chief executive of NICHS, said: "This study does not provide definitive proof that gum disease causes heart disease, but the evidence is building. It has important implications for Northern Ireland, given our high levels of both conditions in comparison with other countries.”

RISK FACTORS
The principal risk factor for gum disease is smoking. It is estimated that more than half of all cases of chronic periodontal disease can be attributed to tobacco consumption. Smoking is also a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

Professor Linden said: “If an increased risk of CHD is attributable to periodontal disease, then it has implications for a substantial proportion of the population and for clinical practice. The fact that gum disease is treatable, however, means that controlling it could be an important public health measure.”

The research findings have been published in a leading American dental journal The Journal of Periodontology.

MORE INFORMATION
Contact Andrew Dougal at NICHS
028 9032 7040