Oral Bacteria and Age-Related Airway Inflammation

Researchers have in the past proposed links between oral bacteria and chronic inflammation, particularly in the heart and brain, proposing that bacterial toxins and bacteria themselves enter the bloodstream via damaged gums. This undoubtedly happens, but supporting data is mixed when it comes to the question of whether or not this has a meaningful effect size in comparison to other inflammatory mechanisms and contributions to age-related disease. Here, a different route for bacteria is proposed: passage into the airways and lungs, a possibly explanation as why gum disease and respiratory mortality are correlated in older patients. The global population is aging, and elderly people have a higher incidence of lower airway diseases owing to decline in swallowing function, airway ciliary motility, and overall immunity associated with aging. Furthermore, lower airway diseases in the elderly tend to have a high mortality rate. Their prevention is important for extending healthy life expectancy and improving the quality of life of each individual. In recent years, the relationship between chronic periodontitis and oral bacteria, especially the periodontopathic ones, and respiratory diseases (e.g., pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and influenza) has become clear. In addition, the association of several periodontal pathogens with the onset and aggravation of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is also being reported. The oral cavity is the entry point ...
Source: Fight Aging! - Category: Research Authors: Tags: Daily News Source Type: blogs