Higher haemoglobin levels are associated with impaired periodontal status: Study

Cellular oxygen sensing mechanisms have been linked to periodontal conditions, and levels of haemoglobin (Hb) (the main carrier of oxygen) can be used as a surrogate measure for hypoxia. We aimed to examine relations between Hb levels and key periodontal health parameters in a general population. The population comprised 1711 (47% male) subjects from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966, for whom an oral health examination was carried out at 46 years of age and whose Hb levels were within the Finnish reference values. Relative risks (RRs) were estimated using Poisson regression models. Results: The low-Hb tertile (mean Hb 133 g/L) had healthier anthropometric, metabolic and periodontal health parameters than the high-Hb tertile (mean Hb 151 g/L). Multivariable regression models adjusted for risk factors showed Hb levels to be positively associated with alveolar bone loss (ABL) and periodontal pocket depth (PPD). However, the associations were weaker after adjustment for key metabolic parameters and were strongly influenced by smoking status. Hb levels within the normal variation are positively associated with PPD and ABL. The association between Hb levels and periodontal condition appeared more complex than anticipated.

Reference:

Tapiola A, Tapio J, Vähänikkilä H, Tegelberg P, Ylöstalo P, Koivunen P. Higher haemoglobin levels are associated with impaired periodontal status. J Clin Periodontol. 2024 Jun 14. doi: 10.1111/jcpe.14030. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 38872488

Keywords:

Higher, haemoglobin levels, associated, impaired, periodontal status,Journal of Clinical Periodontology, haemoglobin; hypoxia; periodontal health; periodontitis,Tapiola A, Tapio J, Vähänikkilä H, Tegelberg P, Ylöstalo P, Koivunen P