Abstract
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine the association between periodontitis and health behavior in women aged ≥40 years. In addition, related factors were compared according to the presence or absence of cardiovascular disease. Methods: Data from the 7th Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2016–2018) were used. The study included 3,801 women aged 40-79 years, who participated in a questionnaire health survey related to hypertension, stroke, myocardial infarction, and angina pectoris, as well as completed blood tests, anthropometry, and oral examination. Statistical analyses were performed using complex sample general linear, complex sample crosstabs, and complex sample logistic regression analyses. Results: In all subjects, smoking and drinking, use of interdental care products, and dental checkups were confirmed to be significantly related to periodontitis. In the group with cardiovascular disease, the use of interdental care products, experience in dental checkups, and toothbrushing more than three times a day were confirmed as significant factors for lowering the prevalence of periodontitis. In the group without cardiovascular disease, smoking and drinking, use of interdental care products, and experience in dental checkups were confirmed as the significant factors. Conclusions: To improve the periodontal health of women over 40 years of age with cardiovascular disease, a health education program including self-care methods for proper dental plaque management and regular dental checkups are critical. Additionally, awareness of the risks of smoking and drinking would be helpful even for women without cardiovascular diseases.
Figures & Tables
Table 1. Prevalence of periodontitis according to the general characteristics and healthy status of participants
