Gum disease has been genetically linked to cancer, although the German researchers who discovered the link are not exactly sure how. Periodontitis (gum disease) and Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) have the same risk factors, most importantly; smoking, diabetes and obesity. Researchers have found similarities between the bacteria found in the oral cavity and in the coronary plaque which both have an imbalance immune reaction and chronic inflammation.
A theory that researcher have come up with is that the bacteria in the oral cavity trigger a low grade inflammatory response throughout the body, which prompts strokes and heart attacks in the arteries.
The gene linking the two conditions is said to be found on chromosome 9. In the latest study the gene linking the two diseases has been found both in a group of 1097 patients diagnosed with heart disease and in 151 patients with aggressive Periodontitis. It is known which protein the gene encodes, however it is not yet clear as to how they are linked to the two conditions.
Full Article: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/8063512.stm
Elliot Beath - 42006570
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