Genetic Link Found Between Gum Disease And Heart Attacks

Boston (HealthKnowItAll) - Researchers from the country of Germany have discovered a link between dental disease and the risk of coronary heart disease.

The researchers of the study, from University of Kiel in Germany say that people who have periodontitis, who share a common gene mutation have a greater risk of heart attacks.

This study finding is a very interesting one, as it could go a long way to explaining why people with perfectly healthy hearts are sometimes hospitalized due to serious heart health problems.

According to study leader Dr Arne Schaefer their study results indicate that gum disease should be taken very seriously as it can lead to the onset of heart disease if not treated properly.

The researchers, studied more than 150 people with gum disease, comparing them to a group of people who had had at least 1 heart attack.

“We found that the genetic risk variant is located in a genetic region that codes for an antisense DNA called ANRIL”, said Dr. Schaefer, “and that it is identical for both diseases.”

Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death on a global scale, and now with this study finding, the hope is that better screening options can be made available to identify the condition early.