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Posted on Sep 30, 2002, 6 a.m.
By Bill Freeman
A 21-year study of more than 10,000 American adults has found a link between the risk of having a stroke and gum disease. The researchers found that the presence of gum disease, or periodontitis, was associated with a significantly increased risk of stroke. They believe that this is due to the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream of patients with gum disease.
A 21-year study of more than 10,000 American adults has found a link between the risk of having a stroke and gum disease. The researchers found that the presence of gum disease, or periodontitis, was associated with a significantly increased risk of stroke. They believe that this is due to the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream of patients with gum disease. Once in the blood, bacteria can stimulate blood clotting and other events that damage the lining of blood vessels and therefore contribute to the risk of stroke. Authors of the study state that their findings demonstrate the impact of oral health on systemic health, and therefore good oral health is important.
SOURCE/REFERENCE: Archives of Internal Medicine 2000; 160:2749-2755
