Chronic periodontitis and reduced respiratory function

• Published in: Journal of clinical periodontology 2019-03, Vol.46 (3), p.266-275
• Main Authors: Winning, Lewis, Patterson, Christopher C., Cullen, Kathy M., Kee, Frank, Linden, Gerard J.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aged; C-Reactive Protein; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; Chronic Periodontitis; Dentistry; Forced Expiratory Volume; Gum disease; Health risk assessment; Humans; inflammation; Male; Middle Aged; Northern Ireland; Periodontitis; Regression analysis; Respiratory function; Spirometry; Tobacco
• ISSN: 0303-6979; 1600-051X
• DOI: 10.1111/jcpe.13076

Objective To investigate whether there was an association between chronic periodontitis (CP) and reduced respiratory function. Methods A group of dentate 58‐ to 72‐year‐old men in Northern Ireland had a comprehensive periodontal examination. Parallel to the periodontal examination, participants completed questionnaires gathering information on their medical history, social circumstances, demographic background and tobacco use. A physical examination assessed anthropometric measures. Fasting blood samples were obtained and analysed for high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP). Spirometry measures were performed using a wedge bellows spirometer (Vitalograph S Model). The primary outcome variable of interest was the percentage predicted forced expiratory volume in one‐second (% predicted FEV1). Analysis included multiple linear regression with adjustment for various confounders and a regression‐based mediation analysis. Results A total of 1,380 men were included in the analysis. The mean age was 63.7 years (SD 3.0). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that a doubling in mean clinical attachment loss (CAL) equated to a −3.33% (95% CI: −4.80, −1.86), p