Dan Zhao1, Mei-Zhen Wu2,3, Shuk Yin Yu2,3, George Pelekos1, Kai Hang Yiu2,3, Lijian Jin1. 1. Division of Periodontology & Implant Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China. 2. Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China. 3. Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, China.
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Our recent work shows that periodontitis experience reflects host susceptibility to the onset of multiple systemic diseases and conditions. This cross-sectional study further investigated whether and to what extent the existing periodontitis could reflect the concurrent presence of inflammatory comorbidities among 'self-perceived health' individuals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: There were 115 'self-perceived health' adults who completed a questionnaire on demographic characteristics and lifestyles. Twenty medical diagnostic tests were then performed to detect eight common systemic diseases and conditions. Meanwhile, full-mouth periodontal examination was undertaken, and the subjects were classified as two subgroups with or without Generalized Severe Periodontitis (Stages III/IV, generalized). The interlink of periodontal status and concurrent systemic comorbidities was assessed. RESULTS: 98.3% (113/115) of the subjects exhibited at least one undiagnosed systemic disease/disorder. Of them, 52.2% (59/113) and 47.8% (54/113) concurrently presented with 1-5 or ≥6 abnormal test results, respectively. Overall, 96.5% (111/115) had periodontitis. Generalized Severe Periodontitis was present in 43.2% (48/111) of the periodontitis patients, and it was significantly associated with the profiles of abnormal test results after adjusting potential confounders (abnormal test results 1-5 vs ≥6; OR: 3.23, p = .012). CONCLUSIONS: The present study shows that existing severe periodontitis could well reflect the concurrent presence of multiple inflammatory comorbidities. Oral and medical professionals can play proactive roles in enhancing health awareness and healthcare, through strong collaboration and teamwork.
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Our recent work shows that periodontitis experience reflects host susceptibility to the onset of multiple systemic diseases and conditions. This cross-sectional study further investigated whether and to what extent the existing periodontitis could reflect the concurrent presence of inflammatory comorbidities among 'self-perceived health' individuals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: There were 115 'self-perceived health' adults who completed a questionnaire on demographic characteristics and lifestyles. Twenty medical diagnostic tests were then performed to detect eight common systemic diseases and conditions. Meanwhile, full-mouth periodontal examination was undertaken, and the subjects were classified as two subgroups with or without Generalized Severe Periodontitis (Stages III/IV, generalized). The interlink of periodontal status and concurrent systemic comorbidities was assessed. RESULTS: 98.3% (113/115) of the subjects exhibited at least one undiagnosed systemic disease/disorder. Of them, 52.2% (59/113) and 47.8% (54/113) concurrently presented with 1-5 or ≥6 abnormal test results, respectively. Overall, 96.5% (111/115) had periodontitis. Generalized Severe Periodontitis was present in 43.2% (48/111) of the periodontitis patients, and it was significantly associated with the profiles of abnormal test results after adjusting potential confounders (abnormal test results 1-5 vs ≥6; OR: 3.23, p = .012). CONCLUSIONS: The present study shows that existing severe periodontitis could well reflect the concurrent presence of multiple inflammatory comorbidities. Oral and medical professionals can play proactive roles in enhancing health awareness and healthcare, through strong collaboration and teamwork.