Gum disease rife in inactive, middle-aged men
by Guy Hiscott
Inactive, middle-aged men are at a greater risk of developing gum disease compared to men who regularly exercise, a study has found.
Researchers detected moderate to severe gum disease associated with infrequent levels of exercise in men aged 45-65, most of whom are office workers.
The study looked at 72 healthy men who did not partake in a sporting activity and had a predominantly sitting working position.
Their gums were assessed during an exercise test, and results showed that older age and low levels of physical activity were associated with moderate to severe gum disease.
Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation (BDHF), said: ‘Desk grazing may seem relatively harmless, but constantly snacking on crisps, chocolate, dried fruit and sugary drinks cause teeth a whole host of nightmares.
‘We already know that poor oral health can have a negative effect on the rest of your body and the fact that gum disease increases your chances of developing heart disease, heart attacks, diabetes, strokes and low birth weight babies needs to be taken very seriously indeed.’
The study was conducted by researchers at the Hannover Medical School.
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