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Emerging evidence suggests that periodontal inflammation may contribute to the pathogenesis and progression of various systemic conditions. Chronic periodontal infection can lead to elevated levels of inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines and acute-phase proteins, which can enter the bloodstream and influence other tissues. This systemic inflammatory response has been linked to cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction, as well as diabetes mellitus, respiratory diseases like pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), rheumatoid arthritis, adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth and low birth weight, and even neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. Conversely, systemic diseases like diabetes can impair immune function, exacerbating periodontal destruction. Understanding this bidirectional relationship underscores the importance of periodontal health in overall systemic health and highlights the need for integrated preventive and therapeutic strategies.
Various cancer types as colorectal, oral, pancreatic, lung, and gastrointestinal cancers have consistent associations with periodontal disease. On the other hand, hematological, breast and prostate cancers show associations with periodontal disease, but these links are less pronounced.
Further, periodontitis was associated with an increased risk of erectile dysfunction ED, and female infertility. In a brief, Periodontitis is linked to systemic conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis through chronic inflammation and bacterial spread. A key player, Porphyromonas gingivalis, disrupts immune responses, promotes systemic inflammation, and contributes to disease mechanisms via virulence factors such as gingipains. Evidence shows P. gingivalis in atherosclerotic plaques, worsened glycemic control in diabetes, and its role in autoantibody production in rheumatoid arthritis. Maintaining periodontal health is crucial for overall systemic health.
