Gum disease may be cause of Alzheimer’s

Amy Baxter | | Health Exec | Precision Medicine
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A seemingly harmless disease could actually be a cause of Alzheimer’s disease, according to a recent study reported by BBC News.

The study found a link between bacteria in a common type of gum disease and people with dementia. The findings could provide a new way to potentially prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

Scientists uncovered the link when analyzing the brain tissue, spinal fluid and saliva of patients diagnosed with or suspected of having Alzheimer’s disease. The researchers found the bacteria associated with gum disease in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s. Previous tests on mice confirmed the bacteria can move from the mouth to the brain.

See the full story below:

Does gum disease have a key role in Alzheimer's?

Amy Baxter
Amy Baxter

Amy joined TriMed Media as a Senior Writer for HealthExec after covering home care for three years. When not writing about all things healthcare, she fulfills her lifelong dream of becoming a pirate by sailing in regattas and enjoying rum. Fun fact: she sailed 333 miles across Lake Michigan in the Chicago Yacht Club "Race to Mackinac."

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