The American Heart Association (AHA) released an updated scientific statement in Circulation reviewing evidence connecting periodontal disease with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). The statement updates the AHA's 2012 report, incorporating more than a decade of additional epidemiologic, mechanistic, and interventional research.
The statement describes both direct pathways, such as bacteremia, and indirect pathways, such as chronic systemic inflammation, that may link periodontal disease to cardiovascular outcomes. It also notes disparities in periodontal disease prevalence among underresourced populations. The AHA said periodontal disease and ASCVD share common risk factors, including age, smoking, and obesity, and that no direct evidence yet confirms periodontal therapy reduces cardiovascular events.
The comments and observations expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of DrBicuspid.com, nor should they be construed as an endorsement or admonishment of any particular idea, vendor, or organization. Some content may be AI-generated.
