Link Between Periodontitis and AMD: A Modifiable Risk Factor: Study
Researchers have found in a new study that Periodontitis has a significant association with Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). While factors like genetics and aging are non-modifiable, periodontitis is a treatable condition. This opens opportunities for personalized prevention strategies for AMD by focusing on dental health. Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for individuals at risk of developing AMD.
Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that leads to systemic low-grade inflammation. Systemic low-grade inflammation has been found in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we evaluated the association between periodontitis and AMD. Methods: We searched 11 scientific literature databases on 16th December 2024 for studies of a diagnosis of periodontitis and prevalent or incident AMD. Eligible studies underwent a qualitative review and meta-analysis of the association. Study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias within studies were made in duplicate by two authors and conferred with a senior author.
Results: Seven studies eligible for review included in total 149,217 individuals. Across the seven studies, different study designs, diagnoses and definitions of periodontitis, and diagnosis and definitions of AMD were employed. Our meta-analysis showed an association between periodontitis and AMD with an odds ratio of 1.42 (95% CI: 1.12 to 1.78; p = 0.003). Conclusions: Periodontitis is significantly associated with AMD. Unlike genetic predisposition and high age, which are important risk factors of AMD that cannot be modified, periodontitis is a risk factor that can be treated and potentially eliminated, thus allowing for a personalized approach for risk elimination in AMD. Attention should be given to the dental health of patients at risk of AMD.
Reference:
Boberg-Ans S, Arnold-Vangsted F, Scheel-Bech AB, Boberg-Ans LC, Arnold-Vangsted A, Jakobsen C, Stokbro K, Subhi Y. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Association Between Periodontitis and Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Potential for Personalized Approach. J Pers Med. 2025 Apr 5;15(4):145. doi: 10.3390/jpm15040145. PMID: 40278325; PMCID: PMC12028726.
