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Oral Health and Obesity: A Genetic Connection

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A recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology confirms that individuals with a high body mass index are more susceptible to developing gum disease. In particular, overweight or obese patients, especially men, who carry a specific genetic variant were at an even greater risk. Furthermore, it appears that those same patients may have a diminished response to nonsurgical periodontal therapy, making treatment more challenging.

DNA was collected from 292 men, aged 29-64, and the participants had dental and anthropometric endpoints taken about every three years for up to 27 years. Researchers were trying to evaluate the specific patterns of interleukin-1 (IL-1) gene variants, which are known to affect the severity of periodontitis, to determine the association between obesity and the progression of gum disease. The analysis of the data showed a strong correlation between IL-1 genetic variations and obesity-related traits, according to a recent article from the Dental Tribune. They found that patients who were IL-1 positive and obese were 70% more likely to experience periodontal disease progression than those who had a healthy BMI.

β€œThis study provides further evidence that obese and overweight patients who are IL-1 positive will benefit from more intensive dental management,” said CEO of Interleukin Genetics, Mark B. Carbeau. β€œBased on these findings we are including expanded education and engagement tools for this high risk population into our product,” he added.

Interleukin Genetics is a life science company that specializes in the genetics of chronic inflammation. They develop and market a line of genetic tests for chronic diseases and health-related conditions. The study was a collaboration between Interleukin Genetics and the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine.

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