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Gum Disease Increases CRP Levels and Heart Attack Risk
Researchers have known for quite some time that elevated C-reactive protein
(CRP) levels increase the risk for cardiovascular disease. A recent
study published in The New
England Journal of Medicine identified elevated CRP levels
as a stronger predictor of heart attacks than elevated cholesterol levels,
and recommended CRP and cholesterol screening for accurate risk assessment
of cardiovascular disease.
However, many clinicians were unclear of the cause of elevated CRP
levels. A study published earlier this year in the Journal
of Periodontology reported that
inflammatory effects from periodontal disease, a chronic bacterial
infection of the gums, cause oral bacterial byproducts to enter the
bloodstream and trigger the liver to make proteins such as CRP that inflame
arteries and promote blood clot formation.
"Periodontal disease needs to be considered as a major contributor
to increased levels of CRP by the medical community," said Dr.
Steven Offenbacher, member of the American
Academy of Periodontology.
Previous studies reported that inflammatory effects from periodontal
disease could cause oral bacterial byproducts to enter the bloodstream and
trigger the liver to make proteins such as CRP that inflame arteries. In
addition, these effects may cause blood clots that contribute to clogged
arteries leading to heart attacks or strokes.
"What makes the recent findings noteworthy is that oral
examinations were conducted on more than 5,000 adults in four U.S.
communities already participating in a study to determine the risk of
atherosclerosis," said Offenbacher.
"This is most likely the largest study confirming that periodontal
disease and body mass index are jointly associated with increased levels of
CRP in healthy adults."
He added, "To reduce levels of CRP, and presumably the risk of
cardiovascular disease, not only would it be important to lose weight if
you are overweight, but it would also be important to get your gums
treated."
CRP testing is now available in many hospitals and health centers. The
American Heart Association and the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention are developing a summary on whether CRP levels should be
routinely tested to diagnose heart disease or to monitor progress of
treatments.
"Based on this information and the potential to prevent heart
attacks and strokes, I foresee patients receiving routine CRP testing in
their dentist or periodontist office in the near
future," said Dr. Gordon Douglass, president of the American
Academy of Periodontology.
"This could help early diagnosis of potential heart disease sooner
rather than later, as most people see their dentist or periodontist
at minimum two times a year."
The American Academy of Periodontology is an association of periodontists – dentists specializing the prevention,
diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting
structures of the teeth. The mission of the Academy is to advance the
periodontal health of the public and represent and serve the Academy's
members.
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