Periodontitis as the risk factor of chronic kidney disease: Mediation analysis
(Journal of Clinical Periodontology; doi: 10.1111/jcpe.13114)
Attawood Lertpimonchai, Sasivimol Rattanasiri, Suphot Tamsailom, Chantrakorn Champaiboon, Atiporn Ingsathit, Chagriya Kitiyakara, Anusorn Limpianunchai, John Attia, Piyamitr Sritara, Ammarin Thakkinstian
Diabetes is relevant to kidney health, and researchers are studying whether gum disease is also involved. This study explored possible relationships between all three conditions over time.
Researchers followed 2,635 Thai employees with initially preserved kidney filtration across health surveys over ten years. They assessed periodontal damage, diabetes and later kidney measurements, then used statistical models to explore possible pathways connecting them.
Periodontal disease and diabetes were associated with later kidney dysfunction in the analyses. Models suggested that part of their relationship might run through the other condition. However, a mathematical pathway is not proof of a biological cause. Kidney assessment relied on estimated filtration and did not include all possible indicators of kidney damage.
The study supports further work on shared dental and medical risks, but it does not establish that treating gums prevents chronic kidney disease. Participants were employed adults from a particular organisation, and health measurements were separated by several years. Your kidney care should be based on appropriate medical tests rather than gum findings alone. The research is best understood as a possible connection to investigate, not a way to calculate your personal future kidney risk.
Following people over time helps researchers study the order of events, but it does not remove all uncertainty. People with different health or dental histories may also differ in medicines, smoking, access to care and other influences. Some participants may be missing from later assessments. Statistical adjustments cannot fully account for everything. The results describe patterns in the people studied, not a personal forecast. They should be considered alongside other research and your own clinical findings when discussing their relevance to you.
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Periodontitis is the 6th most prevalent condition globally
Periodontitis and diabetes are bidirectionally linked
Diabetic complications are increased if you have both diseases
Successful periodontal treatment can improve blood glucose control
Periodontitis is the 6th most prevalent condition globally
Periodontitis and diabetes are bidirectionally linked
Diabetic complications are increased if you have both diseases
Successful periodontal treatment can improve blood glucose control
