Healthy Heart Stems to your Gum?

A genetic link between gum disease and heart disease has recently been
investigated by researchers in Germany. Periodontitis has always been known
to have links to heart disease, but the reason why has puzzled researchers
and physicians for years. But now this study claims to know the genetic
link.

A BBC News report, "Researchers have shown similarities between the bacteria
found in the oral cavity and those in coronary plaques and both diseases are
characterised by an imbalanced immune reaction and chronic inflammation. One
theory is that the bacteria involved in gum disease trigger a low grade
inflammatory response throughout the body, prompting changes in the arteries
leading to strokes and heart attacks"

Both coronary artery disease and gum disease seem to have the same risk
factors: smoking, diabetes and obesity according the BBC Report, and now
with this link physicians are hoping they can learn how to aid in prevention
and treatment for both diseases.

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