When bacteria enter the body, our immune system triggers inflammation to fight them off. Excessive inflammation can lead to plaque formation in the arteries and blood vessels, ultimately causing heart damage. (Image courtesy of Getty Image Bank)
SEOUL, Dec. 7 (Korea Bizwire) – With over six million diabetes patients in South Korea, new research reveals a troubling connection between severe gum disease (periodontal disease) and an elevated risk of developing diabetes, particularly among younger individuals.
A study led by Professor Shin Myung-hee of Sungkyunkwan University’s School of Medicine analyzed data from nearly 30,000 participants in the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2012–2018).
The findings, published in the journal Epidemiology and Health, show that individuals with gum disease are 1.51 to 1.74 times more likely to develop diabetes compared to those without the condition.
Alarmingly, the risk is most pronounced in younger adults (ages 20–44). Severe gum disease increased their likelihood of developing diabetes by up to 2.61 times, and when combined with high systemic inflammation markers (hs-CRP levels above 3 mg/L), the risk soared to 23.31 times.
Professor Shin emphasized, “The association between gum disease and diabetes is particularly strong in younger populations, underscoring the importance of managing periodontal health early to prevent diabetes.”
Gum disease results from plaque buildup, which leads to inflammation around teeth. Left untreated, it can destroy gum tissue, weaken teeth, and contribute to systemic health issues such as diabetes and heart failure.
Separate research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that diabetes patients with gum disease have a 20% higher risk of heart failure. Those with significant tooth loss due to gum disease face an even greater risk, with rates up to 37% higher.
Experts stress that early intervention, such as regular dental checkups and scaling treatments, can mitigate the risks. Ignoring gum disease, however, could exacerbate complications, turning manageable conditions into life-threatening health crises.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
