Meta-Analysis Links Periodontitis with Increased Risk of Hypertension

A new study published in Cardiovascular Research suggests people with periodontitis are more likely to have hypertension. The study, “Periodontitis Is Associated With Hypertension: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis,” led by researchers at the University College of London’s Eastman Dental Institute in the United Kingdom, suggests patients with periodontitis should be informed of their risks for hypertension, and educated about lifestyle changes to prevent or manage both diseases.

The researchers examined 81 studies from 26 countries to determine the odds of high blood pressure in patients with moderate to severe periodontitis. According to the study, the presence of moderate periodontitis was associated with a 22% increased risk for hypertension, while severe periodontitis presented a 49% greater risk for hypertension. The average arterial blood pressure was also higher in patients with periodontitis when compared to those without the oral condition. Despite these findings, the meta-analysis showed that only five out of 12 interventional studies confirmed a reduction in blood pressure following periodontal therapy, indicating that more research is needed in this area.